Douglas enlisted in the Army at Greensburg, PA on 6 January 1943 and was inducted on 13 January.  As a parachutist volunteer Pvt Shaw was assigned to Service Company, 508th PIR at Camp Blanding, Florida.

On 28 January 1943 he began ETO duty, undoubtedly when the USAT James Parker set sail from New York City harbor.

Pvt Shaw remained with Service Company throughout the war and returned to the U.S. on 10 December 19455.  He was discharged at Indiantown Gap, PA eight days later.