Born in a rural country town, Ryan Edward did two years at the Air Force Academy before dropping and pursuing a career in the Coast Guard as a high risk rescue pilot. During his time with the Coast Guard, Ryan flew the most dangerous missions himself, earning the nickname of "Water wings".

During that same year, a tragic accident involving a fellow pilot drove home the value and delicacy of life. Flying was no longer a joy, and a few weeks later he left the Coast Guard to return to a civilian school. But the government had other plans. While he had been a pilot, his performance was so impressive that he was invited to re-join the Airforce. Reluctant at first, he agreed on a temporary basis.

Upon his joining he promptly disappeared into the highly classified Stargate project. His past had solidified his values, and although these sometimes got in the way of his superiors, he was promoted to lead SG-2