Christopher J. Ward was born in Queens, New York City, though he lived in Deer Park, New York for most of his early life. 　　 　　He attended Ss. Cyril and Methodius School and graduated from Deer Park High School in 1983. 　　 　　Prior to joining the Ramones, Ward served in the United States Marine Corps. He was a fan of the Ramones, particularly of Dee Dee Ramone, before joining the band, and later played with him in a band called the Remains or the Ramainz, which was formed by Dee Dee Ramone, Marky Ramone and Dee Dee's wife, Barbara Zampini (Barbara Ramone). He also played in Guitar Pete's Axe Attack, Los Gusanos, Bad Chopper. CJ Ramone released the album Reconquista on June 29, 2012, and his album Last Chance To Dance is scheduled for release in August 2014.