Ekstrom, Clarence E. (Clarence Eugene), 1902-1986

Clarence Eugene Ekstrom was born on Mar. 10, 1902, in Waupaca, Wisconsin. He received his commission as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy in June 1924, and advanced through grades to the rank of rear admiral in October 1953, then to vice admiral in July 1958. Ekstrom died on January 10, 1986, in San Diego, California.

Vice admiral, United States Navy; commander, Naval Air Force, Pacific Fleet, 1959-1962.

Biographical/Historical Note

Clarence E. Ekstrom was born in Waupaca, Wisconsin, and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1924. In November 1940 Lieutenant Commander Ekstrom was the commanding officer of reconnaissance squadron VCS-9. Ekstrom was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions during the Battle of Leyte Gulf while commanding the escort carrier USS Savo Island in October 1944.

During 1949 and 1950, Ekstrom commanded the aircraft carrier USS Franklin D. Roosevelt . In 1954 he was awarded the William J. Kossler Award, for the greatest achievement in the practical application or operation of a vertical flight aircraft that year. Ekstrom later commanded Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean Sea.

Vice Admiral Clarence E. Ekstrom served from October 1959 to November 1962 as a Commander, Naval Air Force, United States Pacific Fleet. Under his direction, the combat readiness and capabilities of the Naval Air Force units in the U. S. Pacific Fleet increased, thereby providing the United States with an effective tool for preserving peace in the several international crises that arose during his tenure of command. Through his perseverance, a 'level readiness' program was instituted which has significantly overcome previous pilot training deficiencies and had an encouraging effect on aviation safety in the U. S. Pacific Fleet.

Vice Admiral Ekstrom retired in 1962 and settled in Coronado, California. He passed away on 11 January 1986.

Sources: Citation (copy) presenting the Distinguished Service Medal to Vice Admiral Clarence E. Ekstrom, United States Navy, undated "Military Times Hall of Valor : Awards for Clarence Eugene Ekstrom". www.militarytimes.com. Accessed 23 March 2012.