On the morning of March 23, 1950, an Air Force B-50 Bomber on a routine training mission, exploded and crashed north of the communities of Dateland and Hyder AZ. Two of the 14 crewman on board, Capt. John H. Lee and 1st. Lt. William T. Gentry, managed to escape the disintegrating aircraft and parachuted to safety. The 12 remaining crew members all perished in the crash.

This memorial is erected and dedicated to the memory of the crew of the "Long Ranger" who, while serving their country, made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of freedom.

Lt. Col. Harold E. Mignola • Tech Sgt. Cecil B. Horton

Capt. Robert H Stephenson • Tech Sgt. Lewis E Womble

Capt. Fred B. Smith • Staff Sgt Raymond D Darby

1st. Lt. Newell G Shepherd • CPI. Melvin E Gelino

Sgt. William E Stovall • CPI. James I. Jones

43rd Bomb Wing, 65th Bomb Sqdn.

Marker is on Ave 64E near U.S. 8, on the left when traveling south.

Courtesy hmdb.org

Credits and Sources: