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31 Oct 22
FM: CHDIRAUX
TO: ALAUX
ALAUX 022/22

Subj: PASSING OF PAST NATIONAL COMMODORE

1. We are saddened to inform all Auxiliarists of the passing of Past National Commodore Peter W. Melera who passed away on October 25, 2022. Commodore Melera led an incredible life dedicated to service to our Nation in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
2. Commodore Melera joined the Auxiliary in 1974 and was an active member in his flotilla in Rye, NY. He proudly served in several positions, and as the National Commodore from 19951996. He was an outstanding leader who helped form our organization into what it is today. His testimony on April 25, 1996, to the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, helped assure passage of the "Auxiliary Act" into law. This piece of legislation redefined the Auxiliary and provided authorization for the Commandant to utilize Auxiliarists to ". . . .assist, the Coast Guard. . .in performing any. . .function, power, duty, role or mission or operation authorized by law," and, most importantly, it provided the legal protection for us to do so. This was indeed a watershed event for the Auxiliary and laid the legal groundwork for the truly multi-mission organization it is today and further enfranchised it as a member of "Team Coast Guard".
3. COMO Melera is survived by his wife, Barb, son, Peter Franklin, daughter by marriage, Pam and four grandchildren. Service will take place at Christian Community Church of Faith; 355 State Route 7 Richmondville, NY on Friday, November 4, 2022 at 11:00 AM. Please join us in sending thoughts and prayers to Commodore Melera’s family and friends in this difficult time.
4. Internet release is authorized.