The Final Salute – In Memorial Honor to MSG Melvin Diez, Jr

Brothers in Arms, Military men, and women down through the centuries, have traditionally exchanged Hand Salutes as a sign of recognition and “as a way” to render courtesy and respect one to another. 

This Hand Salute is the last that we shall render to MSG Diez  our Brother-in-Arms. To his family it symbolizes the love and respect that we had for Melvin. To Melvin, it is rendered as a symbol of honor and gratitude to thank him for the devoted and selfless service he rendered to our great country, State, and community during his service with the Louisiana National Guard. We honor his distinguish military service, and we commend him for his many years of honorable service. Melvin was a true patriot, who served with honor and distinction. He upheld the finest qualities of an American Soldier: courage, commitment, generosity, sacrifice, love and devotion to family and country. He was a true friend.  We bid him a farewell. He is dearly missed from among our ranks. Be at Ease. Rest in Peace.

On behalf of the entire Louisiana National Guard and US Military Services (Army, USMC, Navy, Air Force and USCG) we extend our sympathies and condolences to Melvin’s family and loved ones.
MSG Diez, was a true warrior for those he loved!
MSG Diez, Did not serve and fight because he hated who was in front of him; he served and fought because he loved who was behind him.

To: Ms Jean and the Melvin Diez, Jr Family. Melvin and I served in the Louisiana National Guard. Melvin was a professional Soldier and always willing to help a fellow Soldier.  My wife (Jan) and I, want to offer our sincere sympathies and heartfelt condolences for your loss of Melvin. You should be very proud of his service and accomplishments in the Louisiana National Guard, which he honorably served as a great/professional Soldier.  A memorial Honor and a deserving tribute to a great Soldier.
It is the “Soldier”  
In Memorial Honor to Melvin Diez, Jr
Louisiana National Guard 
It’s the Soldier,
not the pastor/preacher, who has given us freedom of religion and worship. 
It’s the Soldier,
not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.
It’s the Soldier,
not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.
It’s the Soldier,
not the demonstration organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble and demonstrate. 
It’s the Soldier,
not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial. 
It’s the Soldier,
not the politician, who has given us the right to vote, ensures our right to Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.
It’s the Soldier, Who salutes the Flag, who serves beneath the Flag and whose coffin is draped by the Flag, who gives the protester the right to burn the flag.

The World today, is a better place, because of this Soldier’s service.
The American Soldier does not fight, Train and serve because he hates who is in front of him; he Trains, fights and serves because he loves who is behind him.

ETERNAL REST GRANT HIM O LORD AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON HIM. Rest easy gently soul. You will be deeply missed and always remembered. God speed on your new journey. Sending our love and prayers for you, that your soul forever rests in eternal peace.

Rest in Peace Melvin, my good friend and fellow soldier. We had some good times, both on duty in uniform and socially. Peace be with Jean and the family.
You will be greatly missed!!!!

Richard W. Mock
MSG, Retired, USA

My sincere and deep condolences are extended to Melvin's family and close friends.  I served for years with Melvin in the Louisiana Army National Guard.  Melvin was a great soldier and friend. He was well respected and a leader that could always be counted on to do the mission, task, or objective.  It was my honor to serve with him and he helped me in my career.  Rest in peace my friend and thank you for your honorable service to your community, state, and nation.

Douglas Hillensbeck
Lieutenant Colonel, USA, Retired
Prairieville

It was my honor to serve with Melvin in C Company 769th Engineer Company, located in Gonzales Louisiana.  Melvin was a good soldier and a better person.  My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends for the loss of a fine man.  He was appreciated while he lived and will be missed.  May God bless Him and his family.  Rest in Peace Melvin.
                                                                                  Wayne J Albert USA Maj Ret

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers will be with all of you during this difficult time. If I can do anything to help ease your sorrow and pain, please let me know.  Sending hugs and love.

Jean, and sons,  I am so very sorry to hear about  Nig. He was indeed such a wonderful and sweet man. I love you and him very much. It has been almost 5 yrs. Since Joe passed . Thank God I am blessed with my wonderful Sons and family and friends and I know you are too.  Sending much love ❤️ to you and sons and grands.

We are so  very sorry for your loss. Prayers to all.

Nig, 
When I came home from the  military I was sort of lost. You taught me how to bartend  and to deal with people afterwards! You supported me through out, until I was able pick a direction to go in. I will never forget the laughs we shared since then . It seems we haven’t talked in a while but seems like it was yesterday. May you rest in peace and give Aunt Mable and Uncle Larry a hug for me!

OBITUARY

Melvin J. Diez Jr.

6 December, 1946 – 13 February, 2024

Ourso Funeral Home

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