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1st Lt Melvin R. Clemens was married to Mildred Wilton Peters on 13 May 1937.

He joined the National Guard at Fort Worth, Texas on 25 November 1940.

He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross posthumously. The citation cited: For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the 143d Infantry Regiment, 36th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 29 August 1944, near La Coucourde, France. In the early morning a strong hostile force supported by tanks penetrated the defensive position of his regiment. Lt Clemens, reconnaissance officer, volunteered to lead a counterattack. Fearlessly exposing himself to small-arms, artillery, and tank fire he went to one of the guns of the cannon company which had been surrounded by the enemy. By radio he ordered three self-propelled guns into position for mutual support and going from gun to gun he personally directed their fire. Lt Clemens organized the extra men of the gun crews and courageously led them in close fighting against enemy infantry. Under his heroic leadership his command destroyed one enemy tank, two antitank guns, a large number of trucks, and other motor vehicles completely blocking the road and trapping the remaining Germans. His intrepid actions prevented a serious break-through in the regimental defenses. 1st Lt Clemens' inspiring leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty at the cost of his life, exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 36th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Lt Clemens died of wounds in the 95th Evacuation Hospital that was stationed in Saint-Amour, France at the time.