Before going into the Army, Robert Bissell worked for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) at Council Grove, KS. He started with them on 7 April 1939 and served until 25 March 1941

Robert entered the Army on 4 February 1942 at Ft. Leavenworth, KS. His occupational specialty was Medical NCO. Robert spent his entire career at the Army Hospital in Ft. Warren, Wyoming in various areas within the hospital. He was honorably discharged on 7 December 1945.

His decorations included the American Theater Ribbon and the Good Conduct Medal.

After his discharge, he went to work at the Abilene Kansas Memorial Hospital in maintenance. While he was there, he met Evelyn Beichley, a registered nurse and they married on 28 January 1958.

He continued to work for the Abilene Hospital until he retired.