The National Commission for Economic Conversion and Disarmament was founded in 1988, with preliminary work starting as early as November 1987.
The commission promoted public education related to economic conversion and disarmament, culminating in a series of conferences, workshops and organizing projects.
Among the most significant was "The U.S. After the Cold War: Claiming the Peace Dividend", a national town meeting held on May 2, 1990 involving political leaders, scholars, activists and concerned citizens.
The commission board included members of the United States Congress, trade union presidents, scholars and political leaders.
In addition to Melman, key board members included Marcus Raskin, John Kenneth Galbraith, George McGovern, Ted Weiss, and various presidents of the Machinists Union (IAM).