Mr. Melnick volunteered in June, 1940 and was sent overseas a year later with the British Columbia Regiment D.C.O.R. (Duke of Connaught's Own Rifles). Following the war, he settled in Castlegar where he joined the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 170 in 1945. Soon earning a reputation as a very active member, he was asked, in 1954, to served as the Service Officer on a temporary basis. He has held that position for more than 50 years graciously assisting hundreds of Veterans and their families with accessing benefits and services. Mr. Melnick is equally dedicated to remembrance and has served as Chairman of the Poppy Campaign. He always attends the Remembrance Day ceremony and he can be found in local schools talking to children and youth about his wartime experiences. In keeping with his lifetime concern for the well-being of his comrades, he also continues to visit shut-ins to ensure that they are receiving what they need.