Ronald Berry was born on November 30, 1929, in California. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on November 15, 1950, and completed basic training at NTC San Diego, California, in January 1951. His first assignment was aboard the destroyer USS Rowan (DD-782) from March 1951 to March 1952, and during this time he deployed aboard the ship to Korea from January to March 1952. SA Berry next attended Underwater Demolition Team Replacement training (Class 005) at NAB Coronado, California, from March to September 1952, followed by service with UDT-1 at NAB Coronado from September 1952 until he drown during Aqua Lung training at Coronado on December 1, 1952. Ronald Berry was buried at the Pacific Crest Cemetery in Redondo Beach, California.

The Sailor's Creed:

I am a United States Sailor.

I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.

I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.

I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.

I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.