Ray graduated form Springfield High School (NJ) with 9 varsity letters in wrestling, track (pole vault), football and baseball, often competing in track and baseball the same day on the same field, earning the nickname "Iron Man." He was coached by Hall-of-Famer Dick Volivia in wrestling at Rutgers University. Ray was a New Jersey AAU and Eastern Regional AAU champion, as well as a runner up at 167 pounds in the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association and was an NCAA All-American wrestler at 177 pounds in 1952. He also was involved in track and football, a 3 sport man with 7 varsity letters, known at Rutgers as "Mr. Versatility." Ray chose the Navy Air Corps over law school and achieved Navy all-weather jet pilot flying off carriers, challenging and demanding the highest levels of courage, self confidence and self reliance. Commander Vohden was shot down over North Vietnam on April 3, 1965, and was one of the longest POWs, being released February 12, 1973.While a captive Ray was determined to resist and survive and is accredited with demonstrating leadership qualities, self-confidence and courage in the face of dauntless obstacles. Ray was awarded the Silver Star, two awards of Legion Merit, the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. He retired as a captain in 1996 and lives in Virginia.