Clarence Smoyer was a World War II tank gunner known as the “Hero of Cologne” for his bravery in helping to defeat a German panther tank during the important 1945 battle.
- Died: Friday, September 30, 2022. (Who else died on September 30?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 99.
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World War II Hero
Clarence Smoyer was a World War II tank gunner who fired the first shot in the crucial Battle of Cologne in 1945. Approaching the center of the city, Smoyer and his crew encountered and defeated a German panther tank. The engagement was filmed by a US cameraman. Smoyer was in line to be awarded a Bronze Star but a few days after the battle, he was seen talking to German children while taking them across the street to their mom. Talking to the enemy, even children, was banned by the military so he did not receive the honor at the time. In 2019, he finally received the Bronze Star in a ceremony in Washington D.C.
Notable Quote
“I wear this medal in memory of all the young boys who lost their lives and never got to live out their lives.” – He said at his bronze star ceremony in 2019
Tributes to Clarence Smoyer
Full Obituary: wfmz.com
