Melvin A. Just, a truly remarkable and exceptional individual, first took his first breath in the year 1910, in the picturesque city of Spokane, located in the state of Washington. His early life was marked by a unique and unconventional trajectory, as he embarked on a journey that took him from the oil fields, where he worked tirelessly as a roughneck, to the world of athletics, where his natural talent and aptitude would ultimately shine through.
As his athletic prowess began to emerge, Melvin's focus shifted from the rigors of the oil fields to the competitive arena, where he would go on to represent the United States with distinction in the 1932 Olympics. It was during this prestigious international event that Melvin specialized in the discipline of race walking, a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and innate ability.
Mel's journey in the world of cinema began long before his military service, as he took on the role of an extra in multiple films, gaining valuable experience and laying the foundation for a future career in the industry. However, his life took a dramatic turn in 1942 when he made the bold decision to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, marking a pivotal moment in his life's trajectory.
As he progressed through the ranks, Mel demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and dedication, ultimately earning the prestigious position of Commissioned Warrant Officer, a testament to his unwavering commitment and impressive achievements within the military.
Mel's contributions to the Pacific Theater of World War II were multifaceted and far-reaching, with a particular emphasis on establishing swimming programs at Camp Pendleton, thereby equipping troops with the necessary physical and mental preparedness to withstand the arduous conditions of combat.
As he navigated the treacherous battlefields, Mel's courage and combat prowess were repeatedly put to the ultimate test, culminating in a series of intense and grueling hand-to-hand combat encounters on the infamous Japanese-held islands of Iwo Jima and others.
Mel's distinguished military service came to a close, and he made his way back to the Los Angeles area, where he embarked on a new career path as an illustrator for the prestigious Westmore Brothers, a highly respected and renowned makeup artistry firm. His remarkable artistic abilities and talents soon propelled him to the forefront, landing him the esteemed position of head of the art department at Pacific Title and Art Studio, where he was responsible for overseeing the creation of backgrounds and titles for a plethora of iconic and epic films, including the critically acclaimed The Alamo and the visually stunning How the West Was Won.
Mel's life was brutally and prematurely terminated due to the devastating consequences of pulmonary embolisms, a sudden and unexpected event that occurred when he was just 53 years of age. This tragic loss left behind a legacy of grief and heartache for his loving wife, Leatrice, and their three children, Melanie, Kim (Mel),and Jennifer, who were all deeply affected by his untimely departure from this world.
The circumstances surrounding his death have long been shrouded in mystery and speculation, with many individuals convinced that his untimely demise was directly linked to the severe bayonet wounds he sustained during his combat experiences. The trauma and physical harm he endured during these events may have had a lasting impact on his overall health and well-being, potentially contributing to the development of pulmonary embolisms, a condition that ultimately claimed his life.
