Friday, September 01, 2023

Tragedy on Mount Silverthrone: Remembering the C-119 Crash of 1952

November 7, 1952, remains etched in history as a somber day for the United States military and the families of those onboard the ill-fated C-119 aircraft. The crash on Mount Silverthrone in Alaska's rugged wilderness marked a tragic event that took the lives of brave servicemembers and highlighted the challenges and risks of military operations in extreme conditions.

Flight Origin and Intended Destination

The C-119 "Flying Boxcar," a versatile military transport aircraft, took off from Elmendorf Air Force Base near Anchorage, Alaska, en route to Ladd Air Force Base (now Fort Wainwright) in Fairbanks. The aircraft was operated by the 57th Troop Carrier Squadron, part of the 375th Troop Carrier Group. Onboard were 17 servicemembers, including flight crew and passengers, embarking on a routine flight to their intended destination.

The Servicemembers Aboard

Among those onboard were men who had committed their lives to serving their country. Some of the individuals who tragically lost their lives in the crash include:

  • Captain Jack R. Caldwell
  • First Lieutenant Harry D. Wiggins
  • First Lieutenant Stephen R. Desautels
  • Staff Sergeant William H. Little
  • Staff Sergeant Oscar G. Holmes
  • Airman 1st Class William C. Mayo

These brave individuals hailed from different backgrounds but shared the common bond of service and duty to their nation.

Possible Reasons for the Crash

As with any aircraft accident investigation, multiple factors can contribute to the tragic event. In the case of the C-119 crash on Mount Silverthrone, adverse weather conditions and challenging terrain are believed to have played significant roles. The region's notorious weather patterns, including low visibility, gusty winds, and freezing temperatures, could have posed substantial challenges for the flight crew.

Recovery Efforts and Challenges

The rugged and remote wilderness of Alaska's mountains presented substantial obstacles for search and recovery efforts. Due to the challenging weather conditions and treacherous terrain, locating the crash site and recovering the remains of the servicemembers proved to be a formidable task. The inhospitable environment, including steep slopes, deep snow, and limited access, hindered rescue teams from promptly reaching the site.


Mount Silverthrone and the Crash Site

Mount Silverthrone, an imposing peak in the Alaska Range, rises to an elevation of approximately 13,220 feet (4,028 meters). The crash site is situated on the southwestern face of the mountain. The area is characterized by rugged terrain, heavily glaciated regions, and unpredictable weather patterns. This location, combined with the aforementioned challenges, made the recovery and investigation efforts even more complex.

Remembering the Fallen

The crash of the C-119 on Mount Silverthrone serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by servicemembers and the risks associated with military operations, especially in remote and harsh environments. The men who lost their lives that day are remembered for their dedication to duty, their bravery, and their commitment to protecting their country.

Honoring Their Memory

As time has passed, efforts to remember and honor those who perished in the crash have continued. Memorials, ceremonies, and commemorations pay tribute to the lives lost and remind us of the challenges faced by the men and women in uniform. These events also underscore the importance of ongoing safety measures and preparedness in military aviation operations.

The C-119 crash on Mount Silverthrone stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by servicemembers and the unpredictable nature of military operations. As we reflect on this tragic event, we honor the memory of those who gave their lives in service to their nation and acknowledge the unwavering dedication of our armed forces in the face of adversity.

An Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations and Alaskan Command team is searching the the area on Mount Silverthrone in Denali National Park, Alaska, Aug. 3, 2023, where a C-119, with 19 service members aboard, crashed on Nov. 7, 1952.

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