Melvin grew up in New Castle. He eventually joined the Army and spent his time at Ft. Ord in California. In 1957 he joined the Texas Department of Public Safety and moved to Anson in 1967.

His involvement in Scouting covers all programs in the Boy Scouts of America. From 1987 to 1994) he was involved in Pack 122 and Post 122 chartered to the First United Methodist Church and Troop 122 chartered to the Anson Lions Club. He attended Philmont Scout Ranch for special training and later became a member of the Council Training Team for Exploring. In 1995 he became a Unit Commissioner for the Anson units and started serving on the District Committee for Double Mountain District. Since 1992, Melvin has served as the Handicraft Director at Camp Tonkawa.

Melvin has been recognized with several awards for his service. He is a Vigil Honor member in Kotso Lodge and received the prestigious Founders Award from the Order of the Arrow. He has been recognized by the Double Mountain District with special recognitions including the District Award of Merit which was presented in 1990.

He has been an active member in the community also. In 1970 he was awarded the honor of being named Fireman of the Year with the Anson Volunteer Fire Department. While stationed at Ft. Ord and while living in El Paso, he was a Sunday School teacher. After moving to Anson, he taught Sunday School for 8 years at Bethel Baptist Church in Funston. In 1991 the Texas Department of Public Safety presented Melvin with the Medal of Merit.

Because of his involvement at Camp Tonkawa for several years, Melvin has directly touched the lives of more boys than most Scoutmasters. He has the capacity to direct and lead boys through example and exhibits extensive patience in dealing with their problems.

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Current as of 05/31/2003

Chisholm Trial Council Abilene Boy Scouts of America, Texas