Incident Overview
During an approach to Kadena Air Force Base, the aircraft experienced a loss of control and subsequently crashed into the ocean. The impact site was located approximately 14.5 kilometers northwest of the airbase. Following the crash, intensive search and rescue operations were launched to locate survivors in the water.
Casualties and Crew Manifest
The accident resulted in significant loss of life. Out of the fourteen individuals on board, three crew members were successfully rescued, while eleven others were killed. The official crew manifest lists the following personnel:
- Captain Donald L. Adams (Survived)
- 2nd Lieutenant Michael Bochnovic (Killed)
- 1st Lieutenant Gordon N. Froisness (Killed)
- Captain Robert G. Harvey (Killed)
- 2nd Lieutenant John H. Haun (Killed)
- A2c Robert Q. Hopkins (Killed)
- 1st Lieutenant James E. Knox (Survived)
- A1c Edward B. Lemaster III (Survived)
- A2c Harry T. Peoples Jr. (Killed)
- 1st Lieutenant Robert F. Phalen (Killed)
- A2c Charles H. Rees (Killed)
- A1c Jimmy C. Sides (Killed)
- M/Sgt Marvin E. Sleppy (Killed)
- A2c Donald H. Wilson (Killed)
Investigation Findings
The official investigation concluded that the loss of control was attributed to a mechanical failure involving the propulsion system. Specifically, it is believed that the simultaneous failure of three engines occurred due to fuel starvation, leading directly to the crash.