14 October 1966 – Capt Melvin Ruper Ellis grew up in Seattle, WA. He enlisted in the USAF and on June 15, 1966, began his Vietnam tour and was assigned to the 308th TFS. On his 95th mission over Kien Hoa province, his F-100D #553559 was shot down and he ejected.
His chute failed to open and he was KIA. He had served in the US Air Force for 14 years and was 39 years old.
Melvin Rupert Ellis is buried or memorialized at Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver, Colorado. This is a National American Cemetery administered through the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Melvin is honored on the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial in Washington DC. Name inscribed at VVM Wall, Panel 11e, Line 76.