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Master Sergeant Fred B. Balmediano, a devoted family man and proud veteran of the United States Army, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 19th, 2024, at the age of 87, surrounded by family. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 68 years, Concepcion, his children, Arnel, Susan, Amelia, Tess and Amy, his proud grandchildren, Junior, Krystal, Rachel, Desiree, Kiana, Miggy, and his great grandchildren, Madison, Jaxson and Ryder. He was welcomed into heaven by his loving daughter, Nance.

Born on March 31, 1936 in Pasig Rizal, Philippines, Fred grew up as the oldest of four brothers and one sister.  Fred had wanted to study medicine in college, but instead he decided to join the US Army, inspired to service by his father, who served with the US Army in WWII and Korea.  He joined the Army because it was a great opportunity to bring his wife and children to the USA.  He served in the Army for nearly 23 years, from June 1, 1962 to November 30, 1984.  Fred's family of proud "Army Brats" moved several times throughout his Army career, to include California (while Fred was stationed in Korea), Germany, Texas, Colorado, Hawaii, and Georgia.

Fred's Army career was most notably marked by serving two consecutive combat tours in Vietnam with the 1st Infantry Division as a military intelligence ground surveillance radar crewman attached to an infantry unit.  He earned several medals and badges, to include the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, and Meritorious Service Medal.  Fred served 14 years as a senior sergeant, modeling the way for and leading several enlisted soldiers.  His dedication to duty and unwavering patriotism touched the lives of many fellow soldiers and earned him the respect of all who knew him.

After transitioning to civilian life, Fred moved to Fremont, California, focused on being a wonderful husband and father, joining the US Postal Service and serving as a mail carrier for 17 years. He and his wife, Connie, moved to Ashburn, Virginia in 2006 to join his five daughters (Sue, Amelia, Tess, Nance, and Amy), who had moved to Ashburn in 2000 after Fred ran the Army Ten Miler in October 1999 and was inspired by the educational opportunities the area afforded to his grandkids.  His son, Arnel, remained in San Francisco, but visited his parents and sisters frequently.  Fred, lovingly known as "Lolo" to his grandkids, spent his remaining years with his close knit family in Virginia.  He was known for his patience and understanding, his unwavering presence as a father, his sharp aptitude and intellect even in his last moments, his love for "just a little bit" of dessert, and a smile that could melt your heart.

Sergeant B leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and service. He was gentle and quiet, a pillar of strength, and a source of laughter and wisdom for his family. While he is incredibly missed, his legacy lives on through his proud family.

Rite of Committal:  Fred's family and friends gather at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date for Sergeant B's burial with military funeral honors, concluding our final community act in caring for Fred and committing him to his resting place. We express hope that, with all those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith, Fred awaits the glory of the resurrection. The Rite of Committal is an expression of the communion that exists between the Church on earth and the Church in heaven: Fred passes with the farewell prayers of the community of believers into the welcoming company of those who need faith no longer but see God face-to-face.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Veterans of Foreign Wars ( VFW ) in honor of MSG (RET) Fred B. Balmediano, as Fred served two consecutive combat tours in Vietnam and was a proud Army retiree and advocate supporter of veteran charities, most notably VFW.