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Salisbury , NC — After a long and fulfilling career of 35 years in federal service, John J. Melton, executive director of the Salisbury VA Health Care System, has decided to retire on August

11, 2023. "My wife Myung Hee and I have been talking about it for some time now, and we have decided it is the perfect time to start a new adventure in retirement,” said Melton.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our community stakeholders, visiting with our Veterans, and learning from each of our employees. As a Veteran myself, I have been privileged to

witness the tremendous impact of our team's work and dedication to our patients, and I am grateful for the opportunity and experience.” On August 4, 2023, at 4:30 p.m. EDT, Melton will

transfer medical center authority to Charles "Dave" Collins, the current associate director of the Salisbury VA Health Care System; Melton has committed to assisting the team with

any final requirements to ensure a smooth transition until August 11, 2023. "I want to thank John for his leadership and guidance in support of our Veterans at the Salisbury VA Health

Care System, especially during the final phases of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Paul Crews, network director of VA’s Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) 6. "We wish him and

his wife well in their next endeavors." Collins will serve as the interim executive director while the position is in recruitment. He joined the Salisbury VA Health Care System after

35 years of federal service – including decades as an enlisted Airman in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Command Chief Master Sergeant. Learn more about the Salisbury VA Health Care System

at https://www.va.gov/salisbury-health-care/. Media may contact Kevin P. Stapleton, chief communications officer at Salisbury VA Health Care System, via email at [email protected] for

further questions.