World War II Honoree

Shelby F. Westbrook

Branch of Service

U.S. Army Air Force

Hometown

Toledo, Ohio

Honored By

Pearl Thomas

In March 1943, he enrolled in aviation cadet training Tuskegee Army Air Field. On February 8, 1944, he completed his pilot training (class 44-b) and became known as a Tuskegee Airman. He was attached to the 99th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group. This was one of the first all Black units formed by the Army Air Corps. He was sent to Italy in July 1944 and as a combat pilot flew 60 missions over 12 countries in Europe. On his 31st mission, his P-51 Mustang developed engine trouble, and he was forced land in Yugoslavia. He was rescued by Partisans and a month later was back on duty. For his service, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air medal with five Clusters, the Presidential Unit Citation, the 15th Air Force Certificate of Valor, and five Battle Stars, as well as an air-to-air victory over a German Bf 109 fighter on October 4, 1944. He later received a Congressional Gold Medal and the French Legion of Honor.