ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
Major (ret.) Melvin Tanchel, 92, a volunteer member of the Andrews Retiree Activitees Office for four years (the last 14 months as its director) passed Jan. 8.
A memorial service was held for Mr. Tanchel Sunday, with Dr. Marvin Cetron, a former White House advisor on terrorism and Mr. Tanchel's college classmate, as key-note speaker.
At the ceremony, co-workers heard numerous eulogies detailing Major Tanchel's contributions to the nation's military structure and community activities.
He is remembered in the RAO as a very private, unassuming individual who, while being responsive to any request, avoided any form of recognition.
We learned that after an active duty career in research and development assignments, he continued his work as a member of the senior executive service. Some of his projects included development of unmanned aircraft, leading to today's Predator vehicles. He holds patents on some of his projects.
His two children lauded his dedication to the Air Force, which led him to the RAO following the death of his wife.
His interment at Arlington National Cemetery is scheduled for Thursday. For more information, call the RAO at 301-981-2726.