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- July 1, 1991 (Creation)
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https://reflections.mndigital.org/catalog/stc:8630#/kaltura_audio
Biographical Information: Walter J. Gerzin was born on September 4, 1916, in Chisholm, Minnesota. In 1939, he graduated from St. Cloud State Teacher’s College and enlisted into the flying cadet program of the United States Air Force. When World War II broke out, Gerzin flew bombing missions in North Africa, the Middle East, and India. In 1943, Gerzin was assigned to train pilots in Washington state, and later in Florida. He served in the United States Air Force for twenty-one years before leaving to become a teacher. On September 30, 2013, Walter J. Gerzin died at the age of 97.
Transcript Summary: Walter J. Gerzin described his experiences as a bomber pilot and flight instructor in World War II. In 1939, he graduated from St. Cloud State Teacher’s College and enlisted into the flying cadet program of the United States Air Force. After his training, Gerzin flew anti-submarine patrols off the East Coast, until he was assigned to Project X. He described the bombing missions in North Africa, the Middle East, and India. Gerzin was a member of the 513th Bomb Squadron, which was detailed by Captain Rowan T. Thomas in Born in Battle: Round the World Adventures of the 513th Bombardment Squadron. In 1943, Gerzin became a squadron commander and trained pilots in Walla Walla, Washington and Avon Park, Florida. Gerzin flew twenty-five bombing missions, earning himself an Air Medal and a Silver Star along the way. Lastly, he discussed the positive outcomes of being a twenty-one year veteran of the Air Force. Moreover, that military service allowed him to travel and live all around the world and gain self-discipline and respect for others.
Interview by David Overy