Shirley Slade (1921-2000) was one of about 1,100 women chosen for the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). She primarily flew Bell P-39 Airacobras and Martin B-26 Marauders, both notoriously difficult aircraft to fly.
She had several Texas connections. The WASPs’ training program was conducted at Avenger Field in Sweetwater. During her service she was stationed at Dallas Love Field and Harlingen AAF. She is buried in Pflugerville.