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Chat with a veteran Melvin Ash Jr. Melvin Ash Jr.

The Daily Commercial - 4/9/2017

Town: Minneola

Branch of service and rank: Air Force, E-5, Vietnam War

Enlisted or drafted? I enlisted to serve my country. Instead of being drafted, I enlisted.

What did you so in the service? With aircraft, I dealt with weight and balance — supplies, medical, ammo and food. I was on the ground, so we were on the receiving end a lot. We would get the planes in and out.

Why was it important? They needed to have the supplies. My job was to make sure they got in and out with no complications.

What is your most important memory from service? Doing my part. I believe everyone has to do their part.

What did you like least about service? Nothing sticks out.

What do you want people to understand about war? I'd like to have people understand that freedom always comes with a penalty, with a sacrifice. It's gone back 2,000 years. It's the same today.