There will be no memorial services for Merrill Kaler Belgum age 91 of Port Angeles, WA. who passed away on Feb. 22, 2010. Merrill was born to Emil Severin/Knut Belgum & Johanna ( Vallestad) Belgum on 15 January 1919 at their homestead near Dix. Nebraska. He attended Dix Grade school & High schools, graduating May 1936 and in March 1937 enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After completing recruit training at San Diego in July, he reported to Bombing Squadron Four based at North Island Navel Air Station San Diego. At the time the squadron was deployed aboard the U.S.S. Lexington for the Amelia Earhart search. April 1943, Merrill was promoted  to Chief Aviation Machinist Mate. He assisted in forming the Navy’s first jet engine fighter squadron, which during the Korean conflict was part of the Airgroup that first used jet engine powered aircraft in combat. Except for two years as U.S Navy recruiter in Durango, Colorado, Merrill spent his Navy career with Naval Aircraft Squadrons on several west coast air bases and numerous aircraft carriers. During his three “nine month” deployments in Korean waters on board the U.S.S. Valley Forge and the U.S.S. Boxer, his squadron participated in the first air strikes against North Korea and also participated in the last strike of the Korean conflict. Merrill retired from the U.S Navy after 20 years of service and subsequently was employed with Curtis-Wright Aeronautical Division for 24 years as a Field Service Representative and Aviation Consultant to the U.S Navy and U.S Marine Corps activities.

Ruby C. Huff and Merrill were married on April 1944 in Yuma, AZ. and celebrated their 56th. anniversary in 2000. They have no children. They enjoyed several years of R.V.ing throughout the United States during their working years, then from 1975 they spent their summer months in Port Angeles and lived the “ snow- bird” life in Mexico or the southern United States. Port Angles became their permanent home as of 1985.

Merrill’s loving wife Ruby deceased during May 2000, his older sister Pearl and his caring parents preceded him in death. His younger sister Mabel resides in Melbeta, Nebraska. Following cremation, his cremains will be scattered over the waters of Juan De Fuca Straits, his favorite boating and fishing area. He was a member of Elks Lodge # 507, Durango, Colorado. Mount Angeles Memorial is in charge. No memorials suggested, but if given-remember Hospice & Alzheimer’s of Clallam county.