Claire Lee Chennault
At the beginning of World War II, Tarbox enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps. Under the command of Claire Lee Chennault, he piloted B-25 bombers in the China Burma India Theater as a member of the 1st American Volunteer Group, nicknamed the "Flying Tigers." Tarbox was awarded an Air Medal, a Silver Star, and a Purple Heart. Upon discharge, Tarbox returned to Lubbock, Texas.