A native of Missouri, Captain Compton Eugene Ward was graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and entered Naval Service on 1 June 1956. Initially assigned to USS FORREST ROYAL (DD-872), he served aboard for 3 yrs. In 1959 he served as Commanding Officer on USS WHITEHALL (PCER-856). Following this tour, he attended the Naval Postgraduate School at Monterey, Ca., graduating with a degree in Meteorology.

He returned to sea duty in 1963, serving as Executive Officer of USS COURTNEY (DE-1015). He has served as Commanding Officer of USS ADROIT (MSO-509), USS JOHN WILLIS (DE-1027), USS GURKE (DD-783), USS BARBEY (FF-1088), USS DIXIE (AD-14).

Captain Ward's decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, and the Navy Commendation Medal.