VPNAVY VP-9 Mishap - Soviet Shot Down 22JUN55 - No Loss Of Life
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MishapVPB-2 OTU MishapMishap

1940's

MishapsMISHAPs: 16 JAN 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: Yes BUNO: 2310 Cause: Missing on navigation flight. Plane took off after 1840. Flight was to proceed from St.John's Lightship to St.Catherine's Island, then south to Daytona Beach, then north to St.John's Lightship. Nothing was heard from the planes until about 2000 when plane #102 advised all planes to return to base. At 2117 plane #2310 (Urguhart) was heard to request permission to return to base. Permission was given to return, but the message was not receipted for. Other plane's landed successfully (one at Brunswick,Ga and three at Nas Jax). Search was conducted for missing lane. A life raft identified as part of the equipment of plane #2310 was recovered. It appears that the plane proceeded into a thunderstorm area which existed off Brunswick,Ga., and in attempting to return through storm area, control was lost and plane crashed. Crew and plane missing: Pilot Ens.Leonard C. Urquhart, Jr., Ens. John J.Sullivan, Ens. Philip S. Walsh, Rm3c. Cecil H. Boland, and Amm3c. John S. Hawkins. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [09JUL2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 16 MAR 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Off Jacksonville Beach Strike: Yes BUNO: 08181 Cause: Landing was made at sea in attempt to rescue pilot of a fighter plane who had crashed and was floating on the surface. Lack of experience and poor technique cause damage to hull by knocking hole in same. Plane filled with water to such an extent that take-off as impossible and attempt to do so caused hole to enlarge, causing more water to rush in airplane and sink the plane. Pilot used proper judgment in landing, in that the pilot rescued was bleeding profusely about the head and appeared to be in a weakening condition. Damage:Plane and engines sank in fourteen fathoms of water with four depth bombs attached. Crew OK. Pilot. Ens.Rue L. Brown, Ens. Richard D. Crombie, Ens. George R. Crumpler, Amm2c. J. W. Kwaak, Amm3c. W. F. Gotts, Amm3c. L. S. Determan, Sea2c. H. E. Bullock, Aom3c. B. J. Parker, Rm3c. R. H. Newkirk, and Rm3c. G. C. Moros/Minor inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [12JUL2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 27 MAY 43 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 33181 Cause: Night flying on instruments; Crashed-unknown cause, 8mi. NE, Lake City, Fl.Crew killed: Ens. William T. McInnis-pilot, Ens. A. D. Koch, Ens. D. H. Skaggs, Rm3c. O. Cambill, Rm3c. E. R. Engsberg, and Rm3c. K. D. Gondles. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [30DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 25 JUN 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: Vicinity of NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: Yes BUNO: 08422 Cause: Plane was observed falling out of control at 1800-ft. Evidence indicates that the port engine was thrown from the plane from some undetermined cause. As a result of loss of engine, fuel lines and gas tanks were ignited and about 400 gallons of gasoline in port tanks exploded, resulting in disintegration of the plane at altitude of approximately 800-ft. There was no evidence of fire in the interior of plane. "Strike" Crew Killed: Pilot.Lt.Mark M. Bolin Usnr, 2nd.Lt.Francis J. Dorie Usmcr, 2nd.Lt.Donald A. LeFrois Usmcr, 2nd.Lt.John Patrick Keelen Usmcr, Rm3c.Sload B. Mussewhite Usnr, Rm3c.Harry Gibbs, Jr. Usnr, Rm3c.Robert John Barber Usnr, Rm3c.Albert Arsenault Usnr, Rm3c.John Robert Ayres Usnr, Amm3c.Thomas John Sletz Usnr, S/Sgt.Claude C. Lody USArmy (temp assignment), S/Sgt.Henry Crossetti,Jr. USArmy (temp assignment), and S/Sgt.John L. Geer USArmy (temp assignment). Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [20JUL2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 18 JUL 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 08425 Cause: Take-off collision St. Johns River - Plane took off under control of student pilot, Ayers, in port seat, instructor, Demetree, in the starboard seat handling throttles. Demetree applied throttles for a cross-wind take-off. Before reaching the step for take-off plane #08276 came into sight on a bearing of about 25deg relative and at a distance to close for any action to be taken except a water-loop to the left. In failing to do this the starboard wing tip float of #08425 caught the port side of #08276 at the blister and then swerved to the starboard causing starboard propeller to chew into port wing of #08276. Damage: Sudden stoppage of both engines. Starboard propeller damaged. Cowling on both engines damaged. Cabane section damaged, fuel lines and valves broken. Glass broken in pilot's compartment. Stringers and skin broken on hull, etc. Crew Ok. Pilot Lt Joseph Demetree, USN, Ens R. W. Ayers, AV-N USNR, 2nd Lt W. E. Bennett, USMC, Ens A. J. Caffarel, AV-N USNR, AMM3c F. W. Frederick, AMM3c W. E. Jackson, ARM3c C. J. Mahonsky, ARM3c R. D. Lamb, ARM3c N. A. Ligammari, AOM3c T. E. Gray, ARM3c R. M. Ingersoll, AMM3c P. D. Boyer, and AMM3c L. F. Molito. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [08DEC2002]


MishapsMISHAPs: 18 JUL 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 08276 Cause: Take-off collision St. Johns River - Plane was talking off under control of student pilot, Asbury, in the port seat, and the instructor, Ward, in the starboard seat handling the throttles. Pilot taxied 100yds off beach, without he or the instructor checking the area thoroughly. The student pilot gave the instructor the all clear for take-off. Instructor applied throttle for take-off while plane was headed on a southeasterly direction for a cross-wing take-off. Before they reached the step, plane #08425 overtook them and crashed into the port blister and wing, this being the first knowledge of a airplane on there ports side and astern of them. Damage: Hull deck buckled. Step reinforcing plate at #7 cracked. Starboard rotating and stationary blister shields broken, port wing demolished from wing splice to wing tip. Six blister ribs in starboard center section trailing edge. Hole through top and bottom of center section. Crew Ok. Pilot Lt(jg) Dell W. Ward,Jr., AV-N USNR, Ens D. A. Asbury, AV-N USNR, Lt K. B. Beaver, USN, AMM3c E. E. Young, AMM3c H. F. Glass, ARM3c W. J. Spencer, S/Sgt J. E. Wazolek, USAR, ARM3c J. Leikam, ARM3c J. M. Zinn, ARM3c O. L. Fountain, S/Sgt J. H. Conway, USAR, and AOM3c G. D. Weaver. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [08DEC2002]


MishapsMISHAPs: 23 JUL 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 08235 Cause: Instrument landing (solo). St.Johns River, Black Creek - Due to bad weather conditions and trouble with plane radio equipment, communications between plane and base were broken. However, instructions were heard for two other planes to land in area #2, due to bad weather between those planes and the base. 2nd.Lt. Lewis decided quickly as possible to land as weather was closing in. At the time he started his approach there was a 5-7 knot wind from the south. The wind had shifted 180deg, increased to 10-knots, as the plane touched down it started into an uncontrollable water-loop to the left, when the plane had turned about 30deg left it continued its southward progress by bouncing sideways with a heading of 50deg. After the third bounce the plane came to a stop and both engines were cut. After inspecting the plane and fearing it would sink, the pilot started the engines, and plane taxied toward shore where it was beached. Damage: Plane requires major overhaul. Crew Ok. Pilot 2nd Lt C. H. Lewis, USMCR, Ens G. N. Battle (co-pilot), AMM2c Stanley R. Phelap, ARM3c Rollan C. Williamson, ARM3c Chester H. Nowicki, AMM3c Albert Obredier,Jr., ARM3c Thomas R. O'Brien, Sea2c Henry L. Sharpe, and AOM3c Joseph D. Doyle. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [09DEC2002]


MishapsMISHAPs: 31 JUL 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 08304 Cause: Training student night landing instruction - Student, Ens. Ritter, was being instructed in a night power landing at the time accident occurred. Plane struck an unlighted can buoy before pane became airborne. Damage: Plane requires major overhaul. Crew Ok. Pilot Ens William Whittaker, AV-N USNR, Ens W. H. Ritter (co-pilot), USN, Ens B. J. Miller, USN, Ens L. G. Ruth, USN, AMM3c R. J. Fear, AMM3c H. R. Hebner, ARM3c J. J. Rickey, and ARM3c J. E. Herschel. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [09DEC2002]


MishapsMISHAPs: 03 AUG 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 04442 Cause: Lake George, Fl Training (solo) - Pilot landed downwind and while attempting to take-off, was unable to gain enough flying to clear trees at the edge of the lake. Power was reduced and plane water-looped violently to the left. Plane was maintained afloat by bailing and temporary patching of the hull. Damage: Repair damaged parts. Crew Ok. Pilot Ens Stanley R. Pike, AV-N USNR, Ens Wallace M. Haselton, USNR, ARM3c H. D. DeVane, ARM3c J. J. Dillon, ARM3c C. E. Ellison, AMM3c K. D. Bamber, and AMM3c H. D. Beachman. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [10DEC2002]


MishapsMISHAPs: 09 AUG 43 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 29780 Cause: Stalled on take-off, crashed & burned; Crew killed: Lt. James O.Younger-pilot, 2nd. Lt. J. H. Neff (USMCR), 2nd. Lt. D. C. Ducharme (USMCR), and Rm3c. H. P. Mundwiler. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [30DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 21 SEP 43 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: Unknown Cause: Anti-submarine training; Low alt spin during bomb run;Marquesas Key, Fl; Crew killed; Lt. Richard B. Campbell-pilot, Lt. Kenneth C. Bristol, Lt. J. B. Brown, Aom3c. N. G. Gray, Aom3c. H. R. Luiten, Aem3c. W. M. Reynolds, Aom3c. W. G. O'Neil, and Aom3c. D. G. McBride,Jr. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [30DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 29 SEP 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 04435 Cause: Advance base training. Take-off was made 30deg to the left of the wind. By the time plane was on the step (40-45kts), the plane was 90deg to the left of the wind, port wing continually dragging, the plane continuing the left turn and started bouncing. After about ten bounces the plane was 165deg to the left of the wind. At this time the throttles were cut, the plane weather cocked into the wind and settled to the bottom in four feet of water. Damage: Replace damaged parts. Crew Ok. Pilot 2nd Lt E. M. Basuch, USMCR, Ens C. G. Ellis, USNR, 2nd Lt B. C. Beckington, USMCR, AMM3c H. Conos, AMM3c H. Winkle, AMM3c G. Murch, ARM3c J. U. Thatcher, AMM3c E. J. Doonan, ARM3c F. E. Crocker, ARM3c G. W. Peterson, and AOM3c G. Hunter. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [10DEC2002]


MishapsMISHAPs: 02 NOV 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 08319 Cause: St.Johns River off station. Normal power landing was made on a heading of 130deg, 77knots, 150-ft down per minute. Plane water-looped throwing RASKA from the first pilots seat, during which RASKA's hand forced both throttles forward, until the second pilot ELLIS drew them back. During the water-loop both port and starboard wings dug in, tearing both wing tip floats loose and twisting the wing panels. Plane was beached before water inside hull could do any serious damage. Damage: Skin wrinkled, heel plate loose, skin pulled out and rivets loose, keel buckled, port wing panel warped, all floats and struts and braces bent. Crew Ok. Pilot 2nd Lt. Edward William Raska, USMCR, C-P Ens P. L. Ellis, AV-N USNR, 2nd Lt. W. D. Manhar, USMCR (slight contusions to right leg), AMM2c A. L. Kyle, USN, AMM3c O. G. Parsons, USNR, Sea1c Peitit, USN, Sea1c F. J. Craig, USNR, ARM3c C. W. Churchill, USNR, Sea1c R. F. Daley, USN, and Sea1c A. L. Peran, USN. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [07JAN2003]


MishapsMISHAPs: 04 NOV 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 08460 Cause: 20mi east of St.Johns Light Ship. During routine navigation training flight, it was noted oil pressure drop in both engines. During attempt to return to base both engines gave out and force-landed was made 20mi. off the coast. After an inspection it was found that both oil caps on both engines were loosened prior to flight on the beach for the purpose of adding oil. The oil was not received in time for the flight and plane was launched without the safety wiring the oil caps. Damage: Small particles of steel and bronze found in both engine sumps and oil strainers. Engines: Major overhaul. Airplane: Slight damage. Crew Ok. Pilot 2nd Lt. Frank Paul Fezler, USMCR, C-P Ens M. H. Kressig, USNR, Ens R. E. Gunby, USNR, AMM2c F. W. Neill, USNR, ARM3c R. E. Brisk, USN, Sea1c W. H. Brole, USN, Sea1c B. Brown, USN, and Sea1c B. W. Nichols, USNR. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [07JAN2003]


MishapsMISHAPs: 07 NOV 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: No BUNO: 08462 Cause: Aircraft was secured to pad eyes sunk into apron surface, by double lines through tail fittings, wing tip pontoons, and securing rings in leading edge of wings and bow fittings. A sudden strong wind arose, tail fittings on aircraft carried away, line to other fitting broke, airplane was blown over seawall sideways into river. Tide carried aircraft in southernly direction, finally settling on the bottom directly off ramp #5, in approx. 2.5-fathoms; upper surface of wing awash, tail stood out of the water and gradually sunk until aircraft was about in a level attitude. Damage: Major overhaul. No injuries to personnel. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [07JAN2003]


MishapsMISHAPs: 19 DEC 43 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: Yes BUNO: 2330 Cause: Lt.Strong, as instructor was conducting an instrument flight at an altitude of 5,500-ft. From testimony of the surviving plane crew, it is believed that Ens. Holtberg who was under the hood, was in a wingover being negotiated when the right wing went underneath violently and the plane's nose came sharply down, resulting in a normal right hand spin. Recovery was not effected by either pilot and plane crashed. Plane:Demolished. Crew: Pilot. Lt. Warren Potter Strong USN/Killed, Ens. Claes-Erik Sivert Holtberg A-V(N) USNR/Killed, Ens. Jospeh Istre Lecaster A-V(N) USNR/Killed, Sea2c. Vincent James Sroico USN/Killed, Rm3c. Thomas Henry Strangman USNR/Killed, Amm3c. Frederick Horvert Huschke USNR/Killed, Amm3c. Richard Deppansen Kallio USNR/Seriously inj, Amm3c. Frank Theodore Kassey USNR/Seriously inj, Sea2c. Leon Lweandowski USNR/Seriously inj, Sea2c. Sidney Adema,Jr. USNR/Seriously inj, Rm3c. James Elmer Leighton USNR/Seriously inj, and Amm3c. Robert Lee James USN/Seriously inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [03AUG2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 28 JAN 44 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 33925 Cause: Instruction; crashed after take-off from Nas Lake City Aux field: Pilot.Lt(jg). Joseph Armand Turcotte/Killed, and 2/serious inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [30DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 12 FEB 44 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: Yes BUNO: 08535 Cause: The first pilot, having been lost for some time and running low on fuel effected an open sea landing. The hull was intact, except for 8 to 10 rivets holes which were promptly plugged. At 1300 on 13 Feb a passing convoy was contacted and a small ship was dispatched to aid the plane. Numerous attempts were made to tow the plane but all were ineffective and the starboard wing tip float carried away at this time. All personnel were transferred to the ship prior to darkness. Plane was last seen still afloat in heavy seas. Air and surface search was made for two days in an effort to locate the PBY, but it could not be found, it is believed the plane broke up and sank. Plane: "Total Loss" Crew OK: Pilot Ens Jacob Andrew Newborn A-V(N) USNR, Ens James A. Nicholls (co-pilot) A-V(N) USNR, FFC Gaston Grellier, Amm2c D. F. Garrett, Amm3c R. L. Weiss, Amm3c H. Schule, Rm3c V. A. Williams, Rm3c M. R. Burley, Rm3c E. O. Campbell, Sea1c H. Griffin, Sea1c G. Hays, and Sea1c E. W. Lassiter. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [04AUG2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 01 JUN 44 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 29765 Cause: Crashed during dummy torpedo runs, 300yds. off beach at Hunting Isl, SC. Took off from NAS Beaufort, South Carolina, SC. Crew killed; Ens. Donald Benjamine Lemmer-pilot, Ens. M. O'Leary, Sea1c. J. R. Mills, Sea1c. R. H. Lewis, Rm3c. W. C. Gray, Aom3c. C. A. Rawleigh, and Amm3c. E. Opell, Jr. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 11 JUN 44 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: Advance base & over night navigational training flight. Great Ragged Island, BWI Death: None BUNO: 08536 Cause: While the plane was circling an island in the Bahamas Group at an altitude of approximately eight-hundred feet, the starboard engine caught fire after blowing off #3 cylinder. Propeller was feathered and the fire ceased. The pilot attempted to maintain level flight on one engine, but could not maintain altitude, pilot force landed at sea. Landing was normal and pilot taxied the plane for about a mile after landing in an attempt to taxi up on beach of Great Ragged Island and in doing so ran aground on a reef. All attempts to remove plane from reef failed, with hull damaged plane began taking on water. Salvage team and equipment arrived, and found hull damaged beyond repair. Damage: Hull bottom crushed and broken. Stringers of remainder of hull loosened. #3 cylinder of starboard engine was blown off. Engine case around base of #3 cylinder was broken. Corrosion of both engines, equipment and accessories of plane. Crew and passengers OK. Pilot Ens Paul Charles Bernardy A-V(N) USNR, Lt James Constantine Economon (co-pilot) USNR, Ens Henry William McNail USNR, Ens Reginal Evertt Robbins (plane capt) USNR, Amm3c Loen Elton Robbins USNR, Amm3c Peter John Pappas USNR, Amm2c Lee Imey Outlaw, Jr. USNR, Sea1c Norman Alphionse Tremblay (amm) USNR, Rm3c James Joseph Jowdy USNR, Rm3c Willis Daniel Birch USNR, Rm3c William Andrew Doelle USNR, Rm3c Thomas Edward Sokell USNR, and Aom3c Gerald Eugene Cratty USNR. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [11AUG2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 18 JUL 44 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Beaufort, SC Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 29882 Cause: Ditched off Isle of Palms, SC., due to bad weather.8/ok. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 24 AUG 44 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Beaufort, SC Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 33943/33149 Cause: During engine run-in collided mid-air with PV-1; 33149; VB-2, OTU#2, 3.8/10mi. ESE,of NAS: Both crews killed. 33943: Ens. Marvin Edward Lea-pilot, Amm3c. C.D. Braren. 33149: Lt. Jay C. Moss-pilot, Ens. R.F.Lee, Ens. T.D.Clark, and Sea1c.E.C.Furhman. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 15 SEP 44 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: Yes BUNO: 02046 Cause: Night landing practice. Squadron Area #3, St. Johns River, Jacksonville, Fl. During landing approach plane hit channel marker and crashed 100-ft southeast of the marker. Plane sank in 16-ft of water. "Demolished" Crew: Pilot Lt Arthur Julian Fleet A-V(N) USNR/Killed, Ens Leo Joe Gard A-V(N) USNR/Killed, Ens Wallace Burdett Snowfleet A-V(N) USNR/Seriously inj, Ens Isaac M. Roll A-V(N) USNR/Killed, Amm3c James Bryon Hatch V-6 USNR/Killed, Sea1c Joseph Eugene Burke V-6 USNR/Seriously inj, Sea1c Alfred Marvin Little V-6 USNR/Killed, and Sea1c Lecial W. E. Holcomb V-6 USNR/Killed (bodie not recovered). Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [12AUG2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 15 OCT 44 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 29726 Cause: Crashed after night take-off, unknown cause; 5.5mi.E, Nas; "Strike" Crew killed: Lt. Henry R. Hastings-pilot, Ens. K. B. Corley, and Ens. F. Chartier. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 24 NOV 44 A/C: PB2Y-3 Coronado Location: Lake Managua, Nicaragua Strike: Yes BUNO: 7131 Cause: HARD LNADING WAS BEACHED TO PREVENT SINKING MANAGUA, NICARAGUA Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [13MAR98]


MishapsMISHAPs: 08 DEC 44 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 29760 Cause: Bounce instruction; Stalled in turn during landing approach, approx. 3mi. ESE of Lake Butler. Crew killed Lt. Robert F. Deyer-pilot, Ens.J.L.Birong, Ens. J. M. Archambeault, and Amm3c. R. D. Heofener. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 28 JAN 45 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: St. Johns River, FL Strike: Yes BUNO: 08411 Cause: Pilot crashed while making single engine landing on glassy water, 1.7/8mi, bearing 072deg, Nas Jacksonville Boathouse on St.Johns River. Plane was in a turn prior to crash, both port wing an bow hit first and broke up. Plane coming to rest on river bottom inverted position, the wing torn off from the hull. The hull crushed completely from sta #5 forward. Crew: Pilot Ens Elwood Norris Wood A-1 USNR/Seriously inj, Ens Winford Fay Minton A-1 USNR/Killed, Ens John James O'Leary A-1 USNR/Killed, Ens Earl A. Robinson A-1 USNR(died from inj on 16 Mar 1945), Lt(jg) Joe White USNR/Seriously inj, Amm3c Charles L. McMahon USNR/Seriously inj, Sea1c Fred E. Lowder (ARM) USNR/Killed, Sea1c John H. Fleming (AOM) USNR/Killed, Sea1c Ralph R. Pierorazio USNR/Killed, Amm3c James L. Tyson USNR/Seriously inj, and Sea1c Jack Wardlaw (AMM) USNR/Seriously inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [17AUG2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 22 FEB 45 A/C PB2Y-5R Coronado Location: NAS Corpus Christi, Texas Strike: Yes BUNO: 7133 Cause: SANK AT BOUY HULL LEAKED Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [13MAR98]


MishapsMISHAPs: 02 MAR 45 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 48689 Cause: Instrument training: Fuel exhaustion, force-landed in wooded area, 1mi. E of NAS; 1/serious, 4/minor inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 12 MAR 45 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 37046 Cause: Navigation training;Gasoline fumes in plane during take-off roll, plane exploded; Pilot. Lt. Paul H. Harking/Seriously inj, Ens. M. E. Sinkann/Killed, Ens. C. G. Adams/Killed, Aom3c. G. E. Claypool/Killed, Rm3c. N. H. Myers/Seriously inj, and Rm3c. G. A. Little/Seriously inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 03 APR 45 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 29898 Cause: Bounce instruction:Spun-in during attempted signle engine landing: Crew killed; Lt. William W. Jones-pilot, Lt(jg). J. F. Hintz, and Ens. R. J. Mastromarco. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 28 APR 45 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 33940 Cause: Engine run-in; Hit trees after take-off, tearing off tail,crashed and burned; 4mi.SW of NAS. Crew killed Lt. James H. Richmond-pilot, Lt. James A. Edison, Amm2c. William J. Miller, Rm1c. John H. McNamara, Jr., and Sea1c. Benjamine F. Thomasson. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 14 MAY 45 A/C: PBY-5 pby Location: NAS Jacksonville, Florida Strike: Yes BUNO: 2427 Cause: Vicinity of Daytona Beach, Fl; Navigation and cross country flight. The plane crashed into the ocean at approximately 26-26N X 81-05W. Plane was demolished and sank in 5.5-fathoms. The plane was observed burning on the water, and subsequent underwater explosion was observed by the pilots of two SNB aircraft which were flying in the vicinity of the crash. The plane was being flown dangerously close to the water. At the time of the accident; the floats were fully extended in the down position when the plane made a gliding descent from high-altitude simulated submarine attack. "Strike" Crew: Pilot Ens Gerald Earl Mergen USNR/Killed, Ens Gordon Eugene Coffin USNR/Killed, AMM1c Earl Melvin Skinner (rescued by Dumbo) USNR/Seriously inj, AMM1c Alfred John Oiczak USN/Killed, ARM1c Charles John Ewert USNR/Killed, AOM1c Ralph Lewis Moreno USNR/Killed, and AOM1c Thomas John McCulin USNR/Killed. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [17AUG2001]


MishapsMISHAPs: 15 JUN 45 A/C: PBM-3S Marina Location: Corpus Christi Bay, Area #1,Tx Strike: Yes BUNO: 01728 Cause: Nite navigation training:landing accident,hit channel marker #38: 2/major injuries, 7/minor injuries, Lt.R.D.Hotchkiss/killed, Lt.A.J.Brabenan/killed, AMM3c.J.J.Prey/killed, AMM3c.G.R.Olsen/killed, S1c.R.S.O'Hara/killed, S2c.J.J..Ventura/killed, and ACMM.M.P.Bye/killed Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [03OCT98]

UPDATE "...A Tribute in Honor of: Baylor's Military Casualties - This site has been designed to name all those brave men and women who are commemorated on military memorials throughout Baylor campus. They were once students at Baylor University, Waco,Texas and fought and died in the service of our great nation. SEE: http://www.geocities.com/bookdr2003/BU_militarycasualties.html for resident listings..." Contributed by Jasek, Frank J. frank_jasek@baylor.edu [20APR2005]


MishapsMISHAPs: 18 JUN 45 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Beaufort, SC Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 29764 Cause: Gunnery; Engine failure, force landed on a mud flat, sliding 200';Submerged off river bank in the Morgan River; 86deg.10mi.Nas. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 10 JUL 45 A/C: PBM-3 Marina Location: NAS Banana River, Florida Strike: Yes BUNO: 6545 Cause: Radar Patrol, last reported position was 25-22N 77-34W: Flew into storm, crew missing...Pilot:Lt(jg).J.B.White, Ens.Eugene Wendall Lavoy, Ens.Wesley Elliot Lavoy, AMM3c.James E.Eisley, AMM3c.Thomas A.Garner, S1c.John E.Hurt, S1c.Edward J.Wyatt, AOM3c.Thomas C.Oliver, S1c.Gene S.Boyer, S1c.Bernard M.Zlotwick, and S1c.Stephen Wororeck Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [03OCT98]

Memorial PictureIn Memorial for lost friends...10JUL45 [Updated 19JAN2022]


MishapsMISHAPs: 07 AUG 45 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Beaufort, SC Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 37420 Cause: Radar bombing, Hunting Isl Target; Crashed in a storm;Found Sep 1945, 4mi.E of Hunting Isl; Crew killed Lt(jg). Thomas W. Sadler-pilot, Ens. C. P. Guinan, Jr., Ammf2c. J. P. Moran, Sea1c. C. W. Bwayer, Sea1c. T. M. Spence, Sea1c. J. F. Satterthratte, and Rm2c. C. F. Baumgartser. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 20 SEP 45 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Beaufort, SC Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 37048 Cause: Nite radar hop; During taxi to take-off engine caught fire engulfing wing: No inj. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 27 SEP 45 A/C: PV-1 ventura Location: NAS Lake City, Florida Strike: Yes Death: Unknown BUNO: 34632 Cause: Air to ground gunnery; Half roll at 4000', parts of wings came off and plane dove in; 32-27N and 91deg.17mi.from NAS:Crew killed; Lt(jg). C. H. Baker-pilot, Amm3c. W. O.Bruggink, Ens. J. H. Brewington, Aom3c. L. C. Hicks, Rm3c. S. E. Repsher, Sea1c. G. W. Oreengo, and Sea2c. E. W. McKinney. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [31DEC2000]


MishapsMISHAPs: 08 NOV 45 A/C: PBM-3 Marina Location: NAS Corpus Christi, Texas Strike: Yes Death: 11 BUNO: 01701 Cause: Mid-air collision. Lt(jg). J. W. Rosson (pilot)/Killed, Lt.(jg). D. J. Trizza/Killed, Ens. W. C. Nowlin/Killed, Lt(jg). L. F. Cox/Killed, Lt. Cmdr. P. Moore/Killed, ARM3c. L. R. Blankenship/Minor Inj, Lt(jg). J. V. Gregoratti. /Major Inj, ARM3c. D. W. Robb/Killed, AMM3c. S.D. Cole/Killed, AOM3c. J.J. Fitzsimmons/Killed, AMM3c. H.A. Steen/Killed, AOM3c. E.A. Knite/Killed, ARM3c. D.S. Brock/Killed, AOM3c. F. Simonsen Jr. /Major Inj and ARM3c. H.K. Breckenridge/Killed. This excerpt was located at bottom of accident card: (Lt.(jg) Rosson erred in not keeping other PBM to port so it could observe its landing path – landing approach estimated 400'). Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [13JUL2010]


MishapsMISHAPs: 08 NOV 45 A/C: PBM-5 Marina Location: NAS Corpus Christi, Texas Strike: Yes Death: 12 BUNO: 59113 Cause: Mid-air collision. Lt(jg). D.W. Wright (pilot)/Killed, Ens. N.B. Rickard/Killed, Ens. D.P. Kelly/Killed, AMM1c. T.W. Drake/Killed, AMM3c. J.E. Smith/Killed, ARM2c. W.F. Howard/Killed, S1c. C.W. Cavallaro/Killed, S1c. W.J. Danezich/Killed, S1c. R.H. Barberio/Killed, S1c. W.T. Hopkins/Killed, S1c. A.W. Boden/Killed and S1c. H.A. Thompson/Killed. (Take-off estimated at 400")

Accident report:

Location was above a position 2.5mi. bearing 340deg. True from NAS Corpus Christi . M-96 with crew of 12, 3 officers & 9 enlisted men had taken off at 1834 and had been conducting night landing exercises for approximately 1hr. 15mins. Touch and go landings were being made parallel to the floatation lights in seaplane area #3 on a course of 150deg True. Just prior to collision, M-96 had apparently completed a landing & in climbing to regain altitude began to trail slightly to starboard but on a parallel course, M-33 which was making a approach for a final landing in seaplane area #1 on a course of 165deg True. Since M-33 was showing only its running lights and at best the tail lights on the PBM aircraft when viewed from dead astern are extremely difficult to see, it appears that pilot was not conscious of presence of M-33. He continued to climb and because of speed differential in the two models of aircraft, began to overtake M-33 and close on it horizontally.

At approximate 400' altitude and at time M-96 must have been preparing to turn downwind, M-33 suddenly lowered his landing lights. In the understandable surprise caused by the sudden appearance of the other aircraft Lt(jg) Wright pulled up and turned to port in a futile attempt to avoid collision. Upon impact M-96 burst into flames and fell straight down, exploding when it hit the water, M-96 had established radio contact with the seaplane tower prior to orginal take-off but subsequent to that time there had been no exchange of transmissions. It is doubtfull that M-96 heard the tower clear M-33 for final landing and consequently was unawareof its proximity. Area #3 is not a controlled area, pilots land and take-off at there discretion. It would appear from the location of the two defined areas and extact position of the crash that M-96 in his landing practice had exaggerated the traffic pattern and was proceeding upwind an excessive distance before starting his turn.

Since there were no survivors in M-96 this analysis can only be precise on the part of this investigation board. In assigning responsibility for the collision it is the considered opinion of this board that the primary cause (50%) was in attention on part of the co-pilot. Its is standard practice on instrument landings and take-off's for the co-pilot to act as a "Look-Out" and warn the pilot of other aircraft or obstacles in the vicinity, since the pilot is necessarily on instruments. The remaining 50% is allocated 25% yo mental confusion on the part of the pilot caused by sudden appearance of landing lights & 25% poor judgement for pulling up and turning to port without first ascertaining the exact position of the other aircraft. Had M-96 maintained course the collision could possibly have been avoided.

Recommendations:

A formal board of inquiry with Commander Brown USN as senior member has been established by order of Admiral J.J. Clark USN to Investigate. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [13JUL2010]


MishapsMISHAPs: 05 DEC 45

UPDATE "...Dec. 5, 1945, 6 aircraft and 27 men disappeared and the cause has never been established..." Contributed by Bob Woerner (former shipmate VPB-2 OTU (Later ATU-3) robertewoerner@cs.com

1945: In December 1945 we were all getting ready to go home for Christmas. For most of us in the Combat Aircrewman Training Program at NAS Banana River, Florida, we hadn't been home since we started the program in Sept. 1944. The war was over, most of the flying had stopped, and in 1946 we would all be getting orders to transistion to the separation center nearest our home as "ship's company" until we had enough points to get discharged.

Fred Zywicki and I had trained together since boot camp at Jax in Sept. '44. Then on to Norman, Okla. for AOM "A" School and Radar School. Gunnery School was next at Yellow Water, then on to Banana River after a TDY at NAS Melbourne, Florida. We were in the same crew, CAC 88-I and flew many patrols together during the 3 months of Operational Training.. We were the 2 ordnance waist gunners and doubled also in the upper deck...Fred was looking forward to getting home to the Chicago he had left 16 months before.

On Dec. 5th, I was assigned to the Beaching crew, cursing the PBM-3s that still didn't have wheels. Other members of the crew were assigned to other "non-flying" duties. But some stayed on standby, including Fred.------------ I was lucky.

Somewhat to the south, on that day, at NAS Ft. Lauderdale, 5 TBM Avenger Torpedo Bombers were warming up to take their last training hop. The Navy and Marine Combat Aircrewman needed one more flight to qualify for their wings. And the pilots, except for the flight leader, needed one more navigational training flight to finish. One Marine missed the flight. This was the famous "Flight 19", a composite training flight of both Navy and Marine Corps airmen, that would become the subject of every "Devils Triangle" story on TV and books for decades to come. After flying eastward and then northward for some hours, they became lost. They reported trouble with their compasses and couldn't orient directions correctly. As nightfall approached they were almost out of gas.----And then all Florida East coast bases lost radio contact with them.

At NAS Banana River, Florida, two PBMs were alerted to take off on a Search and Rescue operation down to North of the Bahamas to fly a "box" pattern. Their long range meant that they could fly all night if necessary. They were fully gassed. They passed all pre-flight checks. The crew on PBM No. 59225 was made up of our crew and other volunteers. Curiously, there were 5 pilots, and 8 crewmen. We seldom flew with 13, and never with 5 pilots.

Both PBMs took off and headed off in different directions. Radar had them both plotted. ---------Suddenly, PBM 59225 disappeared from the radar. A merchant ship, the SS Gaines Mills, reported seeing a massive explosion high in the sky, which then gravitated down to the ocean and continued to burn with flames 100 feet high.

A large search and rescue mission was already being formed by sea for the 5 TBMs. In the morning, the USS Solomons CVE-67 approached the approximate site of the crash and found only a small oil slick, no debris, no survivors. The plane and crew had apparently vaporized.----------The other PBM and the search vessels and aircraft continued their search for the TBMs for several days with no results.

On this day, Dec. 5, 1945, 6 aircraft and 27 men disappeared and the cause has never been established. They joined the many other aircrewmen who also disappeared in flight in this area known as "The Devil's Triangle", some were other PBMs from Banana River. The Navy convened a Board of Inquiry, which is available on Microfiche, but little was found to add to the facts.

Alfred Zywicki, S1/c (AOM)(CA), USNR, would not be going home for Christmas.

In Memorium: The would be rescuers:


PBM RP-49:
The PPC Walter G Jeffery Lt/USNR/MIA
Pilot Harry G Cone Lt/USNR/MIA
Pilot Charles D Arceneaux Ens/USNR/MIA
Pilot Roger M Allen Ens/USNR/MIA
Pilot Lloyd A Eliason Ens/USNR/MIA
Alfred J Zywicki S1/c(AOM)(CA)/USNR/MIA
James F Osterheld AOM3/c/USNR/MIA
John T Menendez AOM/USNR/MIA
Philip B Neeman S1/c/USNR/MIA
James F Jordan ARM3/c/USNR /MIA
Robert C Cameron ARM3/c/USNR/MIA
Wiley D Cargill S1/c/USNR/MIA
Donald E Peterson AMM1/c/USNR/MIA


In Memorium: Those to be rescued:


Flight 19: Fox-Tare
TBM Avengers

Fox-Tare 3
Pilot J T Bossi Ens/USNR/MIA
A H Thelander S1/c/USNR/MIA
B E Baluk Jr S1/c/USNR/MIA

Fox-Tare 28
Pilot C C Taylor Lt/USNR/MIA
G F Devlin AOM3/c/USNR/MIA
W R Parpart ARM3/c/USNR/MIA

Fox-Tare 36
Pilot E J Powers Capt/USMC/MIA
H Q Thompson Sgt/USMCR/MIA
G R Paonessa Sgt/USMC/MIA

Fox-Tare 81
Pilot F J Gerber 2ndLt/USMCR/MIA
W E Lightfoot Pfc/USMCR/MIA

Fox-Tare 117
Pilot G W Stivers Capt/USMC/MIA
R P Gruebel Pvt/USMCR/MIA
R F Gullivan Sgt/USMC/MIA



And 26 others, also, would not be going home for Christmas.

MishapsMISHAPs: 04 NOV 48 A/C: P2V-2 P Neptune Location: Canada Strike: Yes Deaths: 9/killed BUNO: 39333 Cause: Fleet exercise. Located 16 OCT 61 on the western side of a mtn Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [03APR98]


MishapsMISHAPs: 24 NOV 48 A/C: P2V P Neptune Location: NAS Whidbey Island, Washington 49-22-00N 125-50-25W WRECKAGE FOUND 10/16/61, ON WESTERN SIDE OF SMALL CRK RUNING TO LK Strike: YES BUNO: 39333 Cause: Unknown. Crew killed; Pilot LCDR Wilbur W.Titswroth, LCDR A. B. Hall, Lt(jg) E. T. Swientek, ADC. J. J. Lytle, AL1. G. E. Egeter, AL2. J. R. Wood, AD1. G. L. Cole, Jr (NAP), AO1. T. V. Rudd, and AD-2 J. V. Duval. Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [Updated 15APR2002 | Updated 04JAN2001 | 17MAR99]


MishapsMISHAPs: 01 SEP 49 A/C: P2V-3 P Neptune Location: NAS Whidbey Island, Washington Strike: NO BUNO: 122948 Cause: GUNNERY; PROP HIT BY 20mm. CANNON RICOCHET Contributed by Terry pb4y-2@sbcglobal.net [17MAR99]


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