Fatal Training Crash at Loring AFB Due to Engine Drag Brace Failure (61-0265)

Incident Overview and Crew Details The aircraft departed Loring AFB at 0900LT for a six-hour training mission. The crew consisted of four members: Captain Kenneth Gomes (pilot), Captain Matthew Ramstsch (copilot), First Lieutenant John McCarron (navigator), and Staff Sergeant Jimmy Tardie (boom operator). ## Sequence of Events Shortly after takeoff, while in initial climb, the airplane encountered severe turbulence. During this phase, the number three engine drag brace failed due to a missing nut. The engine swung up in front of the wing, causing a severe roll to the left. ## Loss of Control and Impact Aggressive control inputs were made in an attempt to level the aircraft, which resulted in both the number three and number four engines separating from the wing. The aircraft then entered a 90-degree right bank and plunged into the earth, crashing in a wooded area located 2.4 miles north of the runway. ## Outcome The aircraft was destroyed, and all four crew members were killed.