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You are here: Home / Inductees / Richard A. (Bud) Peterson

Richard A. (Bud) Peterson

Class of 1940Richard A Peterson black and white
(d. 2000)
Inducted September 21, 2012

Education:

  • Alexandria High School – 1940
  • University of Minnesota, BA- Architecture, 1949

Accomplishments/Work History:

  • Enlisted in Army Air Corps, 1940
  • Famous Fighter Ace – 357th Fighter Group of World War II
  • Flew 150 Missions in P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane – Scored 15.5 Aerial Victories
  • Youngest Army Airman to Achieve Rank of Major by age 21
  • Awarded the Air Medal, Distinguished Service Cross, The Distinguished Flying Cross, The Silver Star, and countless Oak Leaf Clusters
  • Nicknamed “Shepherd in the Skies” for skill in guiding American planes to safety
  • Renowned Architect in Minnesota, 1957-2000 – Involved in construction of many Twin Cities buildings, Minnesota Zoo, and developing MnSCU Design Standards
  • Inducted – Minnesota Aviation Hall of Fame, 2000

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The Alexandria Education Foundation mission is to fund initiatives that ignite passion, unlock potential, and foster engagement for all learners and staff within Alexandria Public Schools.

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Alexandria, MN 56308
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  • Alexandria Education Foundation Awards $26,300 In Teacher Innovation Grants April 29, 2025
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