WWII Veteran And Creole, Louisiana Native Ned G Melancon Turns 100

A true American hero, World War II veteran, and Southwest Louisiana native, Ned G. Melancon is turning 100 years old on Wednesday, and a big celebration is set to celebrate him.

His birthday party is this Wednesday at the VFW Post 2130 on the corner of Hamn Ried Road and Lake Street in Lake Charles. The party is set for 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, with live entertainment from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm.

Ned Melancon’s father died when he was just nine months old. His mother was left with four children and no means to support them. Some were placed in a Catholic orphanage, but Ned was raised by his grandparents.

After his grandpa died, he moved in with his mother, who had secured a job caring for the priest in Creole, LA. Since the church had given the priest a large rectory, they offered the upstairs to Ned’s mother and her children.

Ned was later married and started a family, but tragedy struck in June of 1957 when Hurricane Audrey took his wife and two small children.

Ned says it was his music that got him through the most difficult times in his life. He played steel guitar and harmonica.

Ned Melancon once again found happiness and remarried. He and his wife celebrated more than sixty wonderful years together. His wife passed away a few years ago.

Though Ned Melancon lived through difficult events over the years, he reflects on the blessings of his family, his military career, the many years he worked for Schlumberger, and, of course, his music.

Though retired, Ned still enjoys playing music. It doesn’t take much coaxing to invite him to share his Cajun musical talent, especially since his induction into the Cajun French Music Association in 2008. Ned turns 100 years young this April.

So if you can, make plans to go out and celebrate this American hero Wednesday in Lake Charles.