Ed Ball:  

Life Grew up in a small town here in Ohio called Maplewood, 150 people, 3 dogs, and several cats. Graduated from high school 1976 and two days later was in Navy basic training in GLakes IL. Made the Navy a career, retiring in Jan 1997. Was married in Guam, worked for Lee Holmes at Guam Cable TV, my youngest was born in Nov 97, then we returned to Ohio in Apr 98. Been here ever since. That's the short version. I basically joined the Navy and Uncle Sam flipped the bill on a tour in the Pacific, Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf. I've visited Hawaii, Guam, Saipan, Philippines, Japan, Okinawa, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Diego Garcia, Australia, Dubai, Baharain, and Abu Daubi. I lived in Sasebo, Japan, on a forward deployed ship for 3 years, Philippines 8 1/2 years, and Guam for 3 years. Had about 3 years in and out of San Diego, the rest of my time was spent on ships floating throughout the Pacific. An aircraft carrier, fast frigate, guided missile cruiser, submarine, landing amphibious docking ship, mine sweepers, cargo ship, and a communications ship. Highlights of my career? NAVCOMMSTA Philippines Sailor of the Year 1982, winning DISA PAC Commanders Trophy Award for Facility Control Office Philippines, Tech Control Facility and microwave relay facility in 1992 considered "Best in the Pacific" making Chief Petty Officer in 10 years (normally 14) 1986, Technical Control Leading Radioman Chief Petty Officer on 3 star s...Expand for more