Colonel Nelson, a lifelong ROA leader, and 30-year Air Force veteran, died on April 23, 2022, in his home. He was buried with full military honors in Lakeview Cemetery, Fleming, N.Y. At the time of his death, he was serving as president of ROA Missouri Fighter Wing Chapter 442 at Whiteman Air Force Base, MO; he had been a member of the chapter since 1973. The following is the Faces of ROA entry he submitted before he passed.
Describe why you are proud to be an ROA member.
“ROA’s volunteers, for almost 100 years, have uniquely and effectively supported our Reserve Forces. By continually championing for their equitable treatment, ROA has greatly increased the Reserves’ capabilities in its vital role as an essential Operational Partner in DOD’s Total Forces’ defense of our Nation.”
Describe how ROA has benefitted you in your military career.
“Procuring similar benefits enjoyed by our Active Duty partners: career advancement opportunities; funding for more parts, newer equipment, and upgraded facilities; exchange and commissary privileges; more inactive duty training periods that also counted toward retirement pay; Tricare for Life medical, to name a few. ROA helped provide a proud atmosphere in which to serve.”