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Edward O'Melia graduated from Holy Cross College and was a star football player during his time at the school. He was a starter for three years, captained the 1937 team, and earned All-American end in 1938. He later returned to his alma mater as assistant coach before he enlisted in Boston, Massachusetts on 20 March 1941.

Edward Sr. created the O'Melia award to honor his son's life, which is presented annually to the MVP in the Holy Cross-Boston College game. Holy Cross College inducted Capt. O'Melia into the Hall of Fame in 1938.

Capt O'Melia was awarded the Bronze Star Medal posthumously. The citation cited: For heroic action on 15 March 1945 in connection with military operations against the enemy on 15 March 1945 in the vicinity of Himburg, Germany. During the Remagen bridgehead operations, Captain O'Melia distinguished himself by his steady display of tactical efficiency and physical endurance in effectively supporting the attacking companies with the mortars and heavy machine guns of his company. By the cleverest of improvisations in communications, transportation and rapid displacement, and by the wise choice of firing positions in the very front-line elements, he aided his battalion materially in the taking of Himburg, Germany. While inspecting gun positions the night prior to the attack which was to make the first crossing of the Reich Autobahn, he was mortally wounded. His inspiring leadership and heroic action are in accordance with the highest military tradition.