Accident Details
The aircraft departed Eielson Air Force Base on a weather observation mission on behalf of the 58th Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron. Shortly after takeoff, while in the initial climb, one of the engines failed. The airplane lost height and crash landed approximately 5 kilometers west of the airbase. Ten crew members were injured, and one crew member was killed.
Crew
The crew consisted of eleven members: Capt William A. Barrett (pilot), Maj William H. Down (pilot), Capt Charles F. Baker (weather observer), 1st Lt Jack M. Denardo (navigator, deceased), 2nd Lt Howell B. Smith (navigator), M/Sgt Robert L. Callies (flight engineer), A1c William R. Hatch (crew chief), A1c Robert C. Newman (dropsound operator), M/Sgt Alex J. Body (radio operator), A1c Edward J. Proalncher (radio operator), and A2c Alan J. Mulsday (radio operator).
Probable Cause
Official findings stated the probable cause as engine failure after takeoff.