Harry K Mellinger

Military
media-29069.jpeg UPL 29069

Photo

Object Number - UPL 29069

While working for the Glen L. Martin Co., Baltimore, MD, Harry enlisted as an aviation cadet during WWII and was commissioned a 2nd Lt. bombardier. He flew 27 missions on a B-24 in the European Theatre of Operations. His numerous decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, four Air Medals, and the Presidential Unit Citation. After discharge in Sept. 1945, Harry enlisted in the USAF Reserve. Called to active duty during the Korean Conflict, he served as a research and engineering officer at Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton, OH. He retired from the USAF Reserve in July 1972 as a LT. Colonel.



After WWII, Harry graduated from The Pennsylvania State University with a B.S. in Aeronautical Engineering, followed by graduate studies at Ohio State, Indiana, and Drexel Universities. He then spent 11 years working for the USAF as an engineer at WPAFB, Dayton, Ohio, and an electronic data processing manager at Olmsted AFB, Middletown, PA. In April 1960, Harry joined the Philco Corporation. After 28-1/2 years service in engineering, marketing, and sales positions, he retired in Sept. 1988. A major highlight of his career with Philco was his interaction with USAF personnel in the installation of computers, data displays, and communications equipment in the NORAD Cheyenne Mountain Complex and the ensuing turn over to operational status. Upon retirement from Ford Aerospace Corporation (formerly the Philco Corporation), Harry was self-employed new business development consultant to several aerospace companies in Colorado Springs. He loved his work which involved travel throughout the USA and Europe.



His life was filled with many rewarding activities. Service to his country was his greatest pride. Harry was a member of community, professional, fraternal and veteran organizations including the American Legion, VFW, FOE, BPOE and Lions Club. He was recognized by the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association with a lifetime membership award. Being a member of the 491st Bomb Group, he attended the annual reunions. A very special effort was his performance as emcee at the last five Lebanon, PA High School Class of 1941 reunions.



During his youth he was especially proud of high school thespian roles, playing the saxophone in bands and orchestras, Boy Scout pursuits, and church activities. In the latter years, dancing and gardening was his forte.

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Units served with

A Pathfinder B-24 Liberator (V2-P+, serial number 42-51691) of the 491st Bomb Group. Handwritten caption on reverse: '491 BG supplying troops at Arnhem, Sept 1944.'
  • Unit Hierarchy: Group
  • Air Force: Eighth Air Force
  • Type Category: Bombardment

Revisions

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Contributorlazyspaceman
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Children

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ContributorAAM
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Sources

491st BG Roster, Mighty Eighth Air Force Heritage Museum Membership List July 2000 & Page 350 in the book 2ND AIR DIVISIONby Turner Publishing Company, 1998 edition (D790.A2S45) / Drawn from the records of the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, Savannah, Georgia

Harry K Mellinger: Gallery (2 items)