Winfield Scott graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1950. Flying combat missions as a fighter pilot in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, he was awarded three Distinguished Flying Crosses. From 1983 to 1987 he served as the 10th Superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy. He retired in 1987 as a U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General. His son by the same name also graduated from West Point and retired as an Air Force Major General.