Ranney served in the American Civil War in the 2nd Michigan Volunteer Cavalry Regiment.

After the war, he became a companion of the Michigan Commandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States.

Ranney later gifted land to the city of Lansing, Michigan, in what would become Ranney Park that today features a skatepark, baseball diamond and a coming wetland park that is under construction as of Fall 2020.

Citation: At great personal risk, went to the aid of a wounded soldier, Pvt.

Charles W. Baker, lying under heavy fire between the lines, and with the aid of an orderly carried him to a place of safety.