World War II Navy Pilot Turns 101
Celebrating a Hero: Lt. Cmdr. Cash Barber Turns 101 at the National Naval Aviation Museum
Pensacola, FL – May 6, 2025 – The National Naval Aviation Museum was honored to host a heartwarming celebration this week in recognition of a true American hero, Lt. Cmdr. Cash Barber, who marked his 101st birthday surrounded by admirers, family, and fellow veterans.
The celebration took place on Tuesday morning on the Cabot Flight Deck of the museum, a fitting location for the occasion. Guests gathered to pay tribute to Lt. Cmdr. Barber, a distinguished World War II Navy pilot known not only for his service in the Pacific but also for his ongoing dedication to sharing history with museum visitors.
PENSACOLA, Fla. — U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. (ret.) Clyde “Cash” Barber cuts his 101st birthday cake May 6, 2025, at the National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. Barber has spent Tuesdays over the last decade at the NNAM telling stories from his time in service in front of the World War II-era PBY Catalina aircraft like those on which he was a flight engineer during WWII. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Russel Lindsey)
Even at 101, Lt. Cmdr. Barber continues to be a living bridge to the past. Every Tuesday, he shares personal stories and historical insights in front of the very PBY-5 Catalina aircraft he once flew in combat. His vivid recollections and warm personality have captivated thousands of guests, making him a cherished part of the museum experience.
The birthday celebration included remarks , a festive cake cutting, and, of course, plenty of time to shake the hand of the man of the hour. Visitors and media alike joined in singing “Happy Birthday” and reflecting on the enduring legacy of Lt. Cmdr. Barber’s service.
PENSACOLA, Fla. — U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. (ret.) Clyde “Cash” Barber tells stories from his time in service on his 101st birthday May 6, 2025, in front of the World War II-era PBY Catalina aircraft like those he was a flight engineer in during the war. Barber has spent Tuesdays over the last decade at the National Naval Aviation Museum (NNAM) onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Russel Lindsey)
Admiral Kyle Cozad, President and CEO of the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation, shared heartfelt remarks during the ceremony:
“The thing that is special about our museum is not the airplanes—it’s the people and the stories. Cash Barber is a tremendous example of an otherwise common person from a common background who answered the calling to serve his nation and went on to do uncommon things. It’s more than fitting that today we celebrate his 101st birthday and his continued service to our museum. As Cash always says, ‘Proud to serve.’”
Lt. Cmdr. Barber also addressed the crowd with his signature humility and passion for storytelling, saying:
“Folks, it is certainly an honor and a blessing for me to be here with you this morning. There are so many stories out there that are not getting told today, and as long as I’m able, I’m proud and blessed to be able to tell my part.”
The National Naval Aviation Museum extends its deepest thanks to all who attended and helped make this birthday one to remember. And to Lt. Cmdr. Barber—thank you for your service, your stories, and your unwavering dedication to preserving history.