World War II and Korean War Veteran E. Paul Ball, center, was presented with various certificates of appreciation during the California American Legion Area 1, District 5 meeting on Sep 12, 2021 in Vallejo. From left are North State Membership Chair John Aldridge, 5th District Commander Warlito Moises, 5th District 1st Vice Commander E. Paul Ball, and Area 1 Vice Commander Will Williams. (Courtesy photo)

The American Legion family across California is mourning the loss of Ercie Paul Ball, a World War II and Korean War Veteran. Ball went to heaven on March 14, 2026, at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, devotion, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Veterans.

Born on September 3, 1926, in Midway, Kentucky, Ball grew up in a large, faith‑centered family. He was just 15 years old when he heard the news of the attack on Pearl Harbor while riding home from church with his parents and eight siblings. Two years later, before finishing high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, beginning a lifetime of service that would define him.

During World War II, Ball served with Fleet Logistics Support Squadron Two (VR‑2), Naval Air Transport Service, operating out of Alameda and Hawaii. He supported critical logistics missions across the Pacific, flying supplies to carriers and bases at a time when every shipment mattered. He vividly remembered seeing the wreckage of Pearl Harbor on his first trip to Hawaii—an image that stayed with him for the rest of his life.

After leaving the US Navy in 1947, Ball briefly joined The American Legion and then returned to service during the Korean War, enlisting in the United States Army following the death of his older brother, Hayward, at the Battle of Heartbreak Ridge. He served as an artillery trainer at Camp Irwin, preparing soldiers for combat and honoring his brother’s sacrifice through his own continued service.

Ball moved to Vallejo in 1976 and married his wife, Wanda, the following year. Together they built a blended family of six children and became deeply involved in community service, including decades of volunteer work with Rebuilding Together Solano County and the Lions Club where Paul served as District Governor.

But it was through The American Legion that Ball left one of his most enduring marks. A life-member of Post 550, he was the 2025-26 Adjutant, a Past Post Commander, and a trusted mentor to generations of Legionnaires. His leadership extended across the Department of California, where he served as Past District 5 Commander, Past Department Vice Commander for Area 1, Past Department Sergeant‑at‑Arms, Past Department Membership Chairman. He was also a Past Chef de Gare of California’s Forty & Eight Solano Voiture 395.

Even in his nineties, Ball remained an active and respected presence at TAL events. He was a featured speaker at the 80th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor in Vallejo and always sharing his memories and reflecting on the meaning of service across generations. His voice—steady, humble, and deeply rooted in lived experience—left a lasting impression on all who heard him.

Ball’s guiding philosophy was simple: “Keep going. Don’t stop.” It was a motto he lived by, and one he passed on to countless Veterans, volunteers, and community members who looked to him for wisdom and encouragement.

Ercie Paul Ball will be laid to rest at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery on April 14 at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life at the Vallejo Veterans Memorial Building at 420 Admiral Callaghan Lane. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Wanda, their family, and a grateful Legion community that will carry forward his example of service, faith, and dedication.

The Department of California honors his memory and salutes Ball’s lifetime of service. His name now joins the rolls of Post Everlasting, but his legacy continues in every life he touched.

Services for E. Paul Ball will be held Tuesday, April 14. Details are as follows:

Graveside Burial: April 14 at 9:30 AM
Sacramento Valley National Cemetery
5810 Midway Road, Dixon, CA 95620

Celebration of Life: April 14 at 11 AM – 3 PM
Mare Island Navy Yard Post 550
420 Admiral Callaghan Lane, Vallejo, CA 94591