Don Ham was born in 1955 in New Haven, Connecticut, and raised in nearby North Haven, where he attended local schools and graduated from high school. Following graduation, he began working in the construction of prefabricated homes before answering the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy.
After completing basic training in Orlando, Florida, Don attended “A” School at Naval Station Great Lakes, where he trained for a career in naval engineering. Upon graduation, he was assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) as a Fireman and Machinist’s Mate. During a major overhaul of the vessel, Don was temporarily assigned to Naval Station Treasure Island in California, where he received specialized training in capstans, winches, and hydraulic systems before returning to the Kennedy to assist in completing the ship’s modernization.
Once the carrier returned to active service, Don participated in multiple deployments throughout the Mediterranean Sea and North Atlantic. During his service aboard the Kennedy, he experienced one of the most significant events of his naval career when, on November 22, 1975, the aircraft carrier collided with the guided missile cruiser USS Belknap (CG-26). Despite the severe damage sustained by both vessels, the crew remained committed to their mission and worked tirelessly to make repairs before returning to Portsmouth for extensive restoration.
Don continued serving aboard the USS John F. Kennedy until the completion of his enlistment in 1977. Through his hard work, professionalism, and dedication, he achieved the rank of Machinist’s Mate Second Class (MM2/E-5).
Following his honorable military service, Don built a successful and rewarding career in the transportation industry. As a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, he worked for several companies over the years, earning the respect of his coworkers and fellow union members before retiring in 2022 after decades of dedicated service.
In 1992, Don married Virginia Flood, and together they have shared more than 30 years of marriage, building a life centered on family, hard work, and commitment to one another.
Today, Don enjoys retirement by spending time with family and pursuing his favorite pastimes, including fishing, hunting, and traveling. His life reflects a lifelong dedication to service—first to his country, then to his profession, and always to his family.
