In Fayetteville on Thursday, August 27, 2010 a statue was unveiled for one of North Carolina’s most respected public servants. Those associated with the military have heard of General Shelton, for those who have not you will be surprised what a small town boy from Tarboro accomplished over a lifetime. General Shelton spent 38 years in a variety of command and staff positions in the United States and Vietnam. He moved up over that career to become the 14th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and served two terms.
General Shelton has been decorated by 16 foreign governments and, in 2001, was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II. The statue dedication was attended by dignitaries from Fayetteville and way beyond the borders of North Carolina. Ross Perot spoke highly of his longtime friend for his service and for protecting the freedoms we hold dear.
Governor Perdue stated, “North Carolina is proud to be the home of General Shelton. He served our state and nation with honor and distinction in two wars and was awarded many honors for his valor. General Shelton has earned the admiration of comrades, as well as the citizens whose freedom he protected as a member of the United States Army.”
General Shelton’s statue is now on display at the Airborne and Special Operations Museum in Fayetteville, NC.