American sea captain and politician who served in the War of 1812 and later became a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, known for his naval heroism and political leadership.
GREGORY R. BALL is best known for his dual career as a former American politician and a U.S. Air Force officer, having served in the New York State Senate and Assembly from 2006 to 2014.
Born on September 16, 1977, in Pawling, New York, Ball grew up on Quaker Hill. He received the Falcon Foundation Scholarship in 1996 and attended the Valley Forge Military Academy before entering the United States Air Force Academy. At the Air Force Academy, he interned in the White House Drug Policy Office and received a Bachelor of Science in Government in 2001. Later, he started a Master's in International Affairs at Georgetown University in 2004 and was a fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency from 2002 to 2003.
Ball was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the United States Air Force and was assigned to the Diversity Recruitment Office in Philadelphia, where he served as a Minority Admissions Officer for a year. He was then posted to the 11th Wing at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., as a protocol officer, responsible for planning, organizing, and developing projects for the Secretary of the Air Force and the Air Force Chief of Staff.
One of his notable achievements during this time was organizing the 2003 Global Air Chiefs Conference, the first since 1997, for which he rented a cruise ship for a welcome reception in Washington, D.C., for dignitaries attending the conference. He also directed National Hispanic Heritage Month events in 2002, 2003, and 2004.
Ball's political career began in 2006 when he was elected to the New York State Assembly, where he served for four years. In 2010, he was elected to the New York State Senate, representing the 40th district until 2014.
During his political career, Ball was known for his commitment to veterans' affairs, education, and healthcare. He was a vocal advocate for increased funding for veterans' services and was a strong supporter of education reform.
Ball currently resides in Fredericksburg, Texas, with his family. He has been involved in various business ventures and continues to be active in his community.
GREGORY R. BALL's distinguished military service and political career have left a lasting impact on his community and the state of New York. His commitment to public service and his dedication to improving the lives of others are a testament to his character and leadership abilities.
Today, Ball continues to be an influential figure in his community, and his legacy serves as an inspiration to young leaders and public servants.
Born in 1732
The first President of the United States, a military hero who led the country to independence, and set the standard for the office of the presidency. He's known for his honesty, integrity, and leadership skills.
Born in 1743
The principal author of the Declaration of Independence and a strong advocate for individual liberties and limited government, shaping America's foundational principles. He oversaw the Louisiana Purchase, doubling the country's territory.
Born in 1751
The 4th President of the United States, often referred to as the "Father of the Constitution," played a crucial role in drafting the US Constitution and Bill of Rights, shaping the country's government and laws. He was a strong advocate for individual liberties and limited government power.
Born in 1758
The 5th President of the United States was a skilled military leader and statesman who oversaw the acquisition of Florida from Spain and issued the Monroe Doctrine, a policy of opposing European colonization in the Americas. He is also known for being the last of the Founding Fathers to hold the presidency.
Born in 1767
A fiery leader who expanded democracy and shaped the country's economy, known for his populist policies and controversial decisions, including the forced relocation of Native Americans.
Born in 1790
The first vice president to assume the presidency after the death of the incumbent, serving from 1841 to 1845 and annexing the Republic of Texas. He's known for his strong states' rights views and being the first president born after the American Revolution.
Born in 1773
The first president to die in office, serving for only one month, and known for being the oldest president elected until Ronald Reagan. He was a military hero in the War of 1812 and later a senator and governor.
Born in 1784
The 12th President of the United States was a military hero who led the country to victory in the Mexican-American War, and later became a short-lived president. He's known for his strong leadership and sudden death in office.
