Melvin served in Battery C of the 487th Antiaircraft Artillery Battalion. According to one unit history, he served in New Guinea (May-June 1944), Noemfoor Island (July 1944, and in the Liberation of the Philippine Islands in 1945. From his Separation Qualification Record: 'Cannoneer: Served with 487th Anti-Aircraft Aviation Battalion in New Guinea and the Philippines. Was a member of a 40 mm gun crew. Passed ammunition from cache to loader while gun was being fired to protect combat elements and strategic areas from enemy aircraft.' Other occupational assignments listed on this record are Telephone Switchboard Operator and Cook.

Like many servicemen, my Uncle Melvin did not speak about his experiences in the war, and had some difficulty re-adjusting to civilian life. I remember him as a kind and generous man, however, and I am proud of and honor his service to our country.