Ryder graduated from the United States Military Academy, class of 1942, during World War II. Served with the 90th Infantry Division in Western Europe. Graduated from the Command and General Staff College in 1953. Assigned to the Office of the Chief of Staff 1960–61. Commanding Officer 1st Brigade, 8th Infantry Division 1964–66. Commanding General, 199th Infantry Brigade, November 28, 1966 to March 1, 1967. Professor of Military Science, The Citadel, 1966–67. Aerospace Defense Command 4th Infantry Division Republic of Vietnam, 1967–68. Chief of Staff Fourth United States Army 1970–72. Chief, Joint United States Military Aid Group to Greece, Greece 1972–74, Director Logistics and Security Assistance (J-4/7) United States European Command, 1974–77.