He was assigned to the West Gulf Blockading Squadron from 1862 to 1865 and participated in engagements on the Mississippi River and the Battle of Mobile Bay.

[2] As fleet engineer of the Pacific Squadron in 1898, Ford served in the cruiser Baltimore during the Battle of Manila Bay on 1 May.

For his "eminent and conspicuous conduct in battle" in operations at Cavite, Sangley Point, and Corregidor, he was advanced three numbers.

Ford remained on active duty as Inspector of Machinery and Ordnance at Sparrows Point, Maryland, until 25 December 1908.

[2] He was a companion of the Maryland Commandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States.