Colonel Nelson Mellitz: A Lifetime of Service, Advocacy, and Patriotism

At the Armed Forces Heritage Museum, we proudly recognize the contributions of veterans who have served not only on the front lines but also behind the scenes, ensuring that our nation’s military remains strong and ready.
One such extraordinary individual is Colonel Nelson Mellitz, a director of the museum and a past National Commander of the Jewish War Veterans (JWV).

Colonel Mellitz’s commitment to military service and veteran advocacy is deeply rooted in a family tradition that spans more than 80 years. His grandparents first joined JWV after the tragic death of his uncle, Leonard, who was killed in action during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. Their loss transformed into a legacy of service that Colonel Mellitz proudly carries forward today.

 

Building a Military Career: Engineering, Integrity, and Leadership

Nelson Mellitz’s path to military service began after his studies in architecture at Temple University. In 1970, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was assigned to a Civil Engineering Unit.
For nearly a decade, he played a key role in developing and constructing military bases—an essential part of maintaining the global reach and readiness of American forces.

However, Mellitz’s early years in uniform were not without hardship.
During his first three assignments, he experienced antisemitism and discrimination because of his Jewish heritage—a stark contrast to his civilian life up until that point.
Rather than discouraging him, these experiences only deepened his pride in his identity.

“My Judaism grew as discrimination impacted me,” he reflects.

His dedication and skill in engineering caught the attention of his superiors, and Mellitz earned a direct commission into the Air Force’s Acquisition Career Field—a highly specialized area focused on U.S. government contracting.

In this role, he was entrusted with major responsibilities: purchasing airplanes, procuring critical equipment, and even helping to design ships by sourcing key components. His work ensured that American service members had the tools they needed to fulfill their missions.

Over the course of 32 years in the Air Force, Mellitz rose to the rank of Colonel, exemplifying professionalism and patriotism throughout his long career.

 

Continuing to Serve: From Iraq to Veteran Advocacy

Even after his official retirement, Colonel Mellitz’s service did not end.
In 2005, he deployed to Iraq on a State Department mission, where he advised the fledgling Iraqi Ministry of Defense on military operations, contracts, and logistics. His expertise helped a war-torn nation begin to rebuild its military infrastructure.

Colonel Mellitz’s story is a reminder that while we often honor the warriors who engage the enemy directly, the dedication of those who support and equip them is equally vital.
Men and women like Mellitz—working behind the scenes—quietly ensure that America’s military remains capable and prepared to defend our freedoms.

 

Championing Veterans and Fighting Hatred

Mellitz’s involvement with the Jewish War Veterans began in 1990.
Three decades later, as a Past National Commander, he remains deeply committed to expanding JWV’s influence. His priorities include strengthening alliances with other veteran organizations and intensifying efforts to combat antisemitism.

In true spirit of inclusivity and solidarity, Colonel Mellitz is also passionate about supporting Muslim immigrants from Afghanistan, stating that it is important for Jews to show that they “support everybody.”
His approach is a powerful message of unity and compassion at a time when such leadership is critically needed.

Today, Colonel Mellitz continues to serve his community and his fellow veterans in multiple roles:

• Member of the New Jersey Governor’s Veterans Services Council, where he serves as a liaison to the VA Medical Center – Philadelphia, the Vineland Veterans Memorial Home, and Veterans Haven South.
• Founder and Vice President of Business Development at LSA Security, helping businesses and government agencies meet their security needs with expertise and precision.

 

Honoring a Quiet Hero

Colonel Nelson Mellitz embodies the values of service, resilience, and leadership that define the finest traditions of the United States military.
Through his military career, advocacy for veterans, and continued public service, he reminds us that patriotism is not just a duty performed on battlefields—but a lifelong commitment to building a stronger, fairer, and safer nation for all.

We are proud to recognize Colonel Mellitz’s contributions and grateful for his continued leadership at the Armed Forces Heritage Museum.