Bob D. Ashburn enlisted in the Navy on February 12, 1943, and served in the Naval Air Service.  He received his training at Farragut, Idaho, Memphis, Tennessee and Lake City, Florida.  He served in the Asiatic Pacific Theater, 17 months aboard the USS Minneapolis, as a radioman-gunner.  He was engaged in battles in the Marianas, Carolines, Philippines, Okinawa and Palau.  He was awarded 8 battle stars, Letter of Commendation, the Good Conduct Medal and Air Medal.  He returned to the U. S. on May 6, 1945, and was discharged on March 4, 1946.  He graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1950 and Master’s Degree in 1958.  He served as a high school coach, principal and superintendent.