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SSG Melchor Rillera
Melchor Rillera, passed away peacefully in his sleep on what may have been his 110th birthday, 1 January 2018, in San Diego. Melchor was born in the Philippines and immigrated to the United States. He joined the Army and volunteered for the First Special Service Force, the Devil's Brigade. He was a Squad Leader with 3rd Company, 3rd Regiment from 1942 to 1944. He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant in 1945 while serving with the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division.
His "Enlisted Record and Report of Separation" reads like a John Wayne movie; Naples, Foggia, Normandy, Southern France, Aleutian Islands, Ardennes, Central Europe, Rhineland, Rome and Arno. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge, Parachutist Badge, Bronze Star, Purple Heart w/OLC, numerous campaign and service medals. He was also awarded the Special Forces Tab in 2010, the French Legion of Honor in 2014 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2015 awarded to the FSSF.
He is survived by his daughters, Carol and Mary; and his son, Daniel. Melchor was a member of the Special Forces Association, Chapter 75. He will be missed by his family, friends and the Special Forces Brotherhood. He served his nation well and with honor.
Rest in Peace Brother. DOL
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