Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame 2025 Inductee

CLARENCE J. KROTZ

1920 - 1981

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Clarence Krotz attended Von Stuber High School before studying Chemistry at Northwestern University. His passion for aviation led him to enroll at Duncan Aeronautical School, where he earned his mechanic's license in 1941.

In 1943, Krotz enlisted in the Army Air Corps and became a B-26 bomber pilot. He served with the 432nd Bomb Squadron in the Mediterranean Theatre of Operations, flying missions over Sardinia, Italy, North Africa, and throughout Europe. During two tours of duty, he completed 73 missions. On his final mission, his aircra...