Dr. B. F. Byrd Jr. was born in Nashville in 1918. He graduated with his B.A. and M.D. degrees from Vanderbilt University. He served in World War II in the 104th Medical Batalion. Dr. Byrd's unit stormed Omaha Beach on D-Day,and a month later St. Lo and then fought its way across France and Germany. He collected honors and promotions along the way--- a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star and a Silver Star. He left the Army with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After the war he returned to Vanderbilt as a Resident in Surgery and completed his training under Dr. Barney Brooks. Dr. Brooks led him into his interest in surgical operations for cancer and in research.

As a surgeon Byrd centered his interest on breast cancer. In 1976-1977 he served as president of the American Cancer Society. Byrd was one of the driving forces behind the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. Dr. Byrd was also a community activist, serving on museum boards, civic groups, and the Nashville Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Byrd received many awards for his community service.