A native of Missouri, Captain Compton Eugene Ward graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and entered Naval Service on 1 June 1956.

He was 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-1021. He 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.