McLaughlin AFB Names Facility After Beth Melton
The 130th Airlift Wing renamed Building 145 in honor of the Airman and Family Programs manager who supported over 1,000 personnel.
By Marina Weber ·
Building 145 at McLaughlin Air National Guard Base in Kanawha County, West Virginia, now carries the name of Beth Melton. The facility serves as the Airman and Family Readiness Center. The renaming honors a career spent supporting service members and their families. Melton served as the Airman and Family Programs manager for the 130th Airlift Wing.
During her tenure, she assisted more than 1,000 individuals within the unit. Her role required constant availability for the community she served. The base leadership selected the building to reflect the central role of family readiness in military operations.
Scott Melton, Beth’s husband, holds the position of State Command Chief for the West Virginia Air National Guard. He noted that her work ethic persisted even during her battle with breast cancer. “She’d just start working nonstop because she said, ‘They need me,’” Scott said. He recalled specific instances where she prioritized others over her health.
Scott described how Melton left chemotherapy sessions to mow the lawn for a family with a deployed member. On another occasion, she took an airman grocery shopping during a government shutdown when the service member lacked food. These actions illustrated her approach to duty and community care.
Colonel Richard Switzer, Commander of the 130th Airlift Wing, stated that Melton’s influence extended beyond her official responsibilities. “Beth was a true all-star,” Switzer said. He added that her presence inspired those around her to improve their own performance. “Being around somebody like that, you had no choice but to be better yourself,” he noted.
Switzer also observed that Melton “chose joy” while fighting cancer. Chaplain Scott Ostrowski of the 130th Air Wing recalled how welcoming she was. “She made me feel so welcome. And always approachable, always somebody I could talk to,” Ostrowski said. Chief of Joint Staff Colonel Bryan Preece emphasized that caring for others defined her character. “Knowing her was one of the greatest honors of my life and my career,” Preece said.
Scott Melton said his wife disliked being the center of attention. He believes the building renaming ensures she will not be forgotten. “A quiet fear of hers was being forgotten, and I feel like with this sign and renaming the building, it’s unforgettable. She’ll always be here,” he said.
