SIDNEY — May 1 will mark the official retirement of Ed Ball, executive director of the Shelby County Veteran’s Service office.

A Navy veteran — June 1976 to January 1997 — with a passion for “serving those that served,” Ball left Ross Aluminum Castings and began his career with the county in January 2000 as an administrative assistant in the Veteran’s Office and eventually became a certified Veteran’s Service Officer (VSO). As a VSO, Ball takes on the daily task of assisting the county’s veterans navigate the various programs and benefits available to them.

In 2010, Ball was promoted toexecutive director of the county office after his predecessor retired that same year. As executive director, he oversees the daily operation of the office and his staff of six employees who collectively help veterans submit proper VA claims, coordinates rides to VA medical centers in Dayton and Lima, and provide emergency financial assistance to veterans and surviving spouses in need. Over and above his duties as a VSO andexecutive director of the Shelby County office, Ball has become a subject matter expert and one of the country’s biggest advocates for Blue Water Navy Veterans and Agent Orange contamination studies affecting the Vietnam era vets.

At a recent veteran’s benefits workshop held at the American Legion, Ball took time to address the over 125 veterans and spouses in attendance regarding current benefits and some updates on Agent Orange connected disabilities. After the informative session, Ball took the opportunity to thank those who have served this great nation and those whom he has been fortunate enough to serve while manning his post at the veteran’s office.

“The last 18 plus years have gone by quickly. I have been so honored to serve all of you and all the veterans in our county,” said Ball. “Thank you for the opportunities I have been given and for all you have sacrificed for our country. I’m sure I’ll be seeing you around, God bless you all, and God bless America.”

Ball, and wife Elsa, will be looking forward to travel, bicycling, and photographing life along the way in his retirement.

There will be an open house send-off with light refreshments from 11 a.m. to 2 on Thursday, April 26, at the Shelby County Veteran Services Office located downtown in the Monumental Building at 1333 S. Ohio Ave., Sidney. The public is invited to attend.