Colbert Latimer "Bud" Baker was born in 1925 to Colbert Latimer Baker and Martha Lois Brunt. Mr. Baker has distinguished himself in his profession, in military service and through outstanding contributions to the Chickasaw Nation.

As a graduate from the University of Oklahoma, Mr. Baker exemplifies the Chickasaw entrepreneurship spirit. Among other businesses, Mr. Baker founded Chickasaw Distributors, Inc., in 1979. Officially recognized as an American Indian company, this company specializes in tubular goods and drill pipe distributed exclusively to Shell Oil's gulf region. Today, this company generates more than $200 million in annual sales and continues to be family operated.

Bringing honor to the Chickasaw people, Mr. Baker served as a decorated U.S. Naval Officer during World War II, and again during the Korean Conflict. Serving aboard the USS Los Angeles and USS Toledo, he rose to the rank of lieutenant.

Through generous donations to the Chickasaw Foundation, Mr. Baker has helped many Chickasaw students fulfill their educational dreams. In 2000, the Colbert "Bud" Baker Scholarship was established through the Chickasaw Foundation. Honoring his philanthropist nature, in 2003 and 2004 Mr. Baker received the "Outstanding Philanthropist" award presented by the Chickasaw Nation. He is a true Chickasaw in spirit and soul.

Mr. Baker is also involved in the community. He offers leadership and guidance to civic and business organizations. He has served as president of the following organizations: Dallas North Texas Rotary Club, University of Oklahoma Alumni Club and the Car and Truck Leasing Association of Texas. He has held the position of executive secretary for the National Truck Leasing System Dallas Executive Association, the Sales and Marketing Executives of Dallas and Executive International. He currently is a member of numerous clubs, boards and associations in the fields of petroleum, real estate and civic duty.