Remember Our Fallen Veterans

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Remembrance of a Fallen Brother in Arms

It always saddens me to inform you that one of our brothers in arms has passed after his battle with cancer resulting from exposure to Agent Orange while he served in Vietnam. SFC (Ret)Dikran Melkonian was a highly decorated soldier who served during two conflicts: Republic of Vietnam and Desert Storm. SFC Melkonian requested to be returned to active duty during Operation Desert Storm and served with honor and dignity. In his military career he earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart and many other distinguishing awards and decorations. He is survived by his beloved wife, Helena, who was by his side at his passing, and a daughter, Sunny. Services will be held at The Columbarium, Arlington National Cemetery on October 5, 2009 at 1400 hours.

Our hearts are saddened for one of the veterans in our DVCH family.  Today, July 16, 2010 in Staunton, Virginia, our comrade and friend, COL Francis (Frank) M. WILLIAMS, passed away after suffering from the devastating disorder called Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.   COL Williams, Frank to our Committee, was a devoted husband and father to his family.  He always had the greatest spirit and was cheerful and full of jest for life, prior to the advancement of the ALS.  His wife Carol and other family members were there by his side when he passed away.  As I was talking with Nancy, one of his daughters, who told me that “her life as an Army brat was wonderful as they (her mother & father) always made it special for us even though we moved every couple of years.  Frank’s family was a pillar of strength making sure they were around to assist with his care and recently moving him into the new addition that was added to improve his comfort and quality of life.  The family informed me that there will be a one day viewing in Staunton on Tuesday evening.  He will then be flown to New York to be buried in the family plot.  Frank:  “We salute you, your suffering has ended and you can be assured your family at the DVCH will always remember you.”