AFSCME members 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. Melton received the honor at the 47^th International Convention in Chicago last week. 

Several of Melton’s clients spoke in a stirring video about how much his work meant to them. And two special guests surprised Melton on the convention stage to help him celebrate: 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.”