Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Sunday 14th June marks the 83rd anniversary of Australia’s worst air disaster with the 41 passengers and aircrew aboard.
The aircraft, a Boeing B-17C, was a converted former bomber, after being reconfigured for use in the transport role, having seen service in the Pacific area of operations during World War 2.
American soldiers were brought to Australia from New Guinea for rest and relaxation leave, and this aircraft had conveyed a full compliment of these troops to Mackay a few weeks prior to the crash. Extensive maintenance had been carried out to this battle-weary B-17, including replacement of a fuel tank and 2 of the 4 engines in the time leading up to the fateful flight.
A memorial ceremony will be held at the Bakers Creek monument in the grounds of the Community Hall, on Sunday 7th June, commencing at 2.45pm. to commemorate the lives lost.
Flags of the 23 American home states of those who perished will be a feature of the ceremony, and cadets of 105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets will parade and form the Honour Guard, as they have done annually, since the unveiling and dedication in May 1992.
Students from local schools will contribute musical items and a fly past from the Mackay Tiger Moth Museum aircraft will provide an aerial salute.
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