Despite being turned down by the Navy due to a weak left eye, Mr. Melanson persevered. He tells us about the path that led him to becoming a paratrooper.
Patrolling the Battle of the Bulge
Mr. Melanson describes his backup role in the Battle of the Bulge.
Life Aboard the Louis Pasteur
Mr. Melanson talks about his crossing aboard the Louis Pasteur as she sailed to England.
Looking for Excitement
Mr. Melanson reflects on his reasons for wanting to serve overseas.
30 Feet - The Most Frightening Height
Mr. Melanson discusses paratroop training in detail.
Who’s there???
Mr. Melanson describes a humorous mid-air encounter.
Jonesy’s Story - A Tremendous Brotherhood
Mr. Melanson describes the tremendous bond among the remaining members of his battalion.
Landing in a Tree!
Mr. Melanson describes parachuting over the Rhine with both tragic and humorous consequences.
A 50 Mile Forced March
Mr. Melanson describes reaching the Baltic ahead of the Russians and the hoard of German POWs in Canadian care.