At the 47th International Convention, AFSCME honored Carrington Melton, a disabled veterans outreach specialist at the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services and a member of OCSEA, with the 2026 Never Quit Service Award.
Melton has dedicated his career to helping Ohio’s veterans find jobs as they transition from military life to civilian life.
AFSCME President Lee Saunders introduced Melton.
“[Carrington] … has spent his career helping his fellow veterans find meaning in the next chapter of their lives. He refuses to leave his fellow veterans behind. He embodies the best of our union,” Saunders said.
Several of Melton’s clients spoke in a stirring video about how much his work meant to them.
And two special guests surprised Melton to help him celebrate the honor: His mom, Claudia Melton, and a former client and friend, David Jeffries.
“Carrington, you have always stood up for those who need help,” said Claudia Melton. “I love that you are the rock that people can count on. But I am also proud that you share your warmth and your compassion when veterans in need call on you.”
Jeffries said, “I’ve known Carrington for 30 years, and I can honestly say I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for him.”
In accepting the honor, Melton said: “I’ve lost words. Of course, I had no idea that these two loving individuals were going to be here in Chicago. Ya’ll can keep a secret! … I’d like to thank AFSCME and my fellow union members for this award. Again, I didn’t see it coming …. so I say thank you very much and I accept this award.”
The award ceremony also recognized AFSCME veterans and their families.
Two AFSCME veterans spoke of their service and the sacrifice veterans make in serving their county.
They were Robert Beamon, a Connecticut Council 4 member who served in the U.S. Marine Corps and the Army National Guard, and Maria Tom, a Hawaii UPW member who served in the U.S. Army and the Army National Guard.
