Honoring Our Veterans
This page is dedicated to honoring the Veterans in our community for their service and telling their stories.
What Tom Brokaw referred to as "The Greatest Generation" is quickly declining in number. This, of course, refers to not only our World War II Veterans but also to the families that supported those veterans in the war effort. These are some of the veteran's personal stories pertaining to their own war efforts. It's the club's hope that should you be so inclined, you will reach out individually to these veterans and get to know them a little better.
We will start with the World War II Veterans as we do not want to lose their stories. The goal is then to get stories from all Sunflower Veterans. Click on the veterans name below their picture to read that veteran's story.
Alfred W. Shaw – United States Navy and Public Servant
Alfred W. Shaw’s life reflects a deep commitment to service, leadership, and civic responsibility. In 1953, he attended the Academy of Aeronautics at LaGuardia Airport in New York, pursuing his passion for aviation. During his studies, he applied to become a member of the first graduating class of the United States Air Force Academy in 1955. Unfortunately, due to a mistaken identity during the interview and testing process, his application was interrupted. Undeterred, Shaw completed his education and graduated from the Academy of Aeronautics in August 1956. In November of that same year, he joined the Naval Aviation Cadet Program. By March 1957, while stationed in Pensacola, Florida, he successfully completed the pre-flight stage of training. However, a health issue prevented him from continuing in flight status. He was subsequently assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Roosevelt (CVA-42), where he participated in a nine-month Mediterranean deployment, practicing NATO defense. In March 1958, Shaw returned to the United States, and by July 1958, he was honorably released from active duty. Following his military service, Shaw built a successful business career. He became a small business owner, operating several franchises, and later expanded his work into banking and real estate. His entrepreneurial success was matched by his passion for public service. Shaw entered politics and was elected to serve in the Oregon State Legislature, where he worked diligently on behalf of his constituents. During his years of service, he also had the opportunity to meet President Ronald Reagan. Throughout his life, Alfred W. Shaw demonstrated unwavering dedication to his community, his state, and his country.
