A Pine Bluff Veteran Honored for World War II Service

Wilbur C. West, a Pine Bluff native, farmer, businessman, and World War II veteran, was awarded the Silver Star Medal for gallantry in action during the European Theater of World War II. The medal was formally presented to him on April 23, 2001, at Little Rock Air Force Base.

Mr. West served in the military from 1940 to 1945. During World War II, he became a B-24 heavy bomber pilot and took part in the first American bombing raid on the European continent. The mission targeted the Ploesti oil fields in Romania, a critical source of fuel for Nazi Germany.

After the raid, Mr. West and other servicemen were forced to land in Turkey because they were low on fuel. They were held there for several months before Mr. West helped lead a group to freedom by flying a Turkish plane to Cyprus.

Following his military service, Mr. West returned to Pine Bluff, where he became a respected farmer, businessman, and community leader. He owned and operated farmland, received the Harvey W. McGeorge Award for Distinguished Service to Agriculture in Arkansas, and was inducted into the Pine Bluff Leadership Hall of Fame.

Mr. West’s story reflects courage, service, and dedication to both his country and his community. His Silver Star recognition stands as a lasting tribute to his bravery and to the sacrifices made by the men who served alongside him.