On January 16, 1965, a US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed into a residential neighborhood in Wichita, Kansas, shortly after takeoff from McConnell Air Force Base. The crash resulted in the deaths of all seven crew members and 23 civilians on the ground, making it one of the deadliest aviation disasters in Kansas history. The incident occurred in the Piatt Street area, destroying a number of homes.
The crash happened after the KC-135, a military refueling plane, experienced a loss of control shortly after takeoff. The aircraft struggled to gain altitude and began to yaw, with the crew attempting to return to the base. They jettisoned the crew entry door and fuel in an attempt to regain control, but the plane ultimately rolled inverted and crashed at 20th and Piatt. The ensuing explosion and fire caused widespread damage and casualties.
A memorial park, Piatt Memorial Park, was later established at the crash site to honor the victims. The park includes a plaque with the names of those who died. The event remains a somber part of Wichita's history, highlighting the devastating impact of aviation accidents on both the military and civilian communities.
This was recorded at the Piatt Memorial Park in Wichita Kansas.
The question: "Do you watch over anyone?"
The answer is a barely audible whisper, repeated two more times.
If you would like to contact us, our email address is: podcast@awes.com
Copyright by the Land Of Awes Information Services - All rights reserved
