Shelby Westbrook, veteran of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, flew 60 missions over 12 countries in Europe during World War II. He was stationed in Italy to fly with the 99th Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group. His service as a combat pilot eventually earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross along with several other awards, as well as his promotion to First Lieutenant. He spent a total of four years active in the Army Air Corps and six years on reserve.