Arvel Belton

Arvel “Ace” Belton was born on March 1, 1931, and grew up in the Greensboro area. He answered his country’s call to service during the Korean War, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in early 1951.

Military records and veterans’ rosters list him as a member of Company A, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division, one of the most storied combat units of the conflict. This battalion fought in some of the most challenging conditions of the war—part of the famed “First to Fight” division that saw action from the Inchon landings through the grueling engagements at the Chosin Reservoir and along the Korean Demilitarized Zone.

After completing his military service, he returned home to Guilford County, where he built a lasting life rooted in faith, family, and community. He and his wife, Bobby Jean, shared 64 years of marriage and were longtime members of Pleasant Garden Baptist Church.

Arvel Belton passed away on May 14, 2022, at the age of 91.