Accident Overview
A heavy bomber operating from Kadena Air Base crashed approximately 8 kilometers east of the airfield, less than three minutes after departing for Korea. The aircraft went out of control and impacted a field. Nine crew members were killed, and three others sustained injuries.
Casualties
The crew comprised 12 personnel. Fatalities included 1st Lt Howard T. Coyler, Cpl Louis S. Dent Jr., Sgt H. J. Groves, 1st Lt David H. Hogan, 1st Lt Ralph U. Hooper, S/Sgt Robert L. Kaufman, 1st Lt William L. McLain Jr., 1st Lt Raymond J. Rood, and Maj George R. Salisbury. Surviving crew members were S/Sgt George E. Evenskaas, Cpl Charles E. Lint, and Sgt Sherrill L. Stokes.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the accident resulted from an engine failure shortly after takeoff.