Aircraft mechanic, tactical fighter pilot, airshow performer, corporate pilot and civil aviation enthusiast, Joseph Shannon was born in Walker County, Alabama on May 11, 1921 and grew up in Birmingham. His extended career in aviation began as an aircraft mechanic in the National Guard. He received his pilot's wings in th United States Army Air Corps during World War II and was deployed overseas as a sergeant pilot in 1942 where he completed an illustrious tour as a fighter piot flying P-38s. During his second overseas tour he flew B-25s.

During his military career, he supervised the training of Cuban Liberation Air Force pilots for the Bay of Pigs invasion and flew a final desperation mission against Castro's forces. After serving for 33 years as a military aviator, Mr. Shannon retired for a career in corporate aviation. Now, after 60 years of active flying, Joe Shannon continues his dedication to aviation.