Billy Mitchell was an American Army general and a pioneering advocate of air power in the early 20th century. He is called the "Father of the United States Air Force" for his efforts in demonstrating the potential of military aviation, especially during World War I and the years afterward. His historical significance to Milwaukee comes from his connection to the city, as Mitchell grew up on a farm in what is now the Milwaukee suburb of West Allis, Wisconsin, and his legacy is honored through the General Mitchell International Airport, which bears his name.