By Andi Anderson
George Howard Clarke, a family farmer from northeast Iowa, will be recognized during the 2026 Gold Star Hall Ceremony. His life reflected dedication to agriculture, education, family, and military service.
Born on Oct. 20, 1916, to Ruth and John Clarke, George Howard Clarke grew up on a family farm in Grundy County, Iowa. As the eldest of four children, he learned the values of hard work and responsibility from an early age. Agriculture played a major role in his upbringing, as his father founded Clarke Hybrid Corn Co. and became one of Iowa’s earliest commercial growers of hybrid seed corn in 1932.
During high school, Clarke actively participated in 4-H programs. He showed livestock at county fairs and took part in judging competitions. His interest in farming continued after graduation from Conrad High School in 1935, when he enrolled at Iowa State Agricultural College. There, he worked in the Agronomy Seed Laboratory, joined FarmHouse Fraternity, and spent three years singing bass in the men’s glee club. He also helped his family’s corn business whenever possible alongside his brother, Hugh Clarke.
In 1941, as World War II intensified, Clarke joined the U.S. Army Air Forces. Although he hoped to become a pilot, military leaders recognized his navigation abilities. He earned his wings as an air cadet navigator in 1943 and later trained other servicemen as an instructor.
Throughout his military service, Clarke remained close to family and friends through letters. His writings often reflected optimism and humor. In one letter to his aunt, he wrote, “I’m the world’s clumsiest man on a pair of skis. It teaches a new vocabulary much faster and more efficiently than golfing ever could.”
Before leaving for duty in Greenland, Clarke spent time with his family during what would unknowingly become their final reunion. Regarding his 27th birthday, he wrote, “In spite of the fact that I had a good birthday, I’m sure I’ll have a lot more of `em that will be more pleasant,” underlining “sure” and “lot.”
As a 2nd Lt., Clarke served with the 1st Arctic Search and Rescue Squadron. On Nov. 28, 1943, he boarded an AT-7 “Navigator” aircraft during a routine mission near Greenland. The plane disappeared and failed to make scheduled radio contact. Search teams later discovered the wreckage on Dec. 19, 1943. All seven people aboard lost their lives, and Clarke was buried near the crash site. He was 27 years old.
Following his death, his family continued contributing to Iowa agriculture and public service. Today, George Howard Clarke is remembered for his commitment to farming, education, military service, and the enduring legacy he left behind for future generations.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle