Department of the AIr Force Staff Message Branch page 2 of 2
Subject: Discovery of World War II wrecked aircraft [C-47B Dakota 43-16261] July 14, 1966
[Previous page 1] "Ascertained: it is a C-47 aircraft, serial no. (tail) [43-] 316261, bearing marking of the Air Transport Command, US Army Air Force. A piece of seat belt bore an inspection date of June 26, 1945. Aircraft had struck the near vertical south side of a 3000ft. mountain, on a northerly heading, about 100 yards from the top. One shoe sole (approximate size 12) one rubber heel, the top front portion of a brown GI shoe, and two rusted helmets were found. No skeletons or remains or personal possessions (watches, belt buckles, dog tags, etc.) were found. Cockpit section of aircraft was completely mangled and buried in side oxiivanlniffzm cargo/passenger section was more intact but bore no signs of either cargo or passengers. Aircraft appeared to have been in a level flight attitude when it struck the mountain. Speculate that bodies were carried away subsequent to the crash by animals or natives. Request guidance as to (1) further information action required from AIRA, (2) procedures for expressing US Government appreciation for notification of wreckage. On-site photographs were taken and will be forwarded as directed."
Credit: Department of the Air Force Staff Message Branch Date: July 14, 1966
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