Photos

A week in history July 9 - 15

On July 11, 1955, a Convair RB-36 Peacemaker, commanded by Maj. William W. Deyerle assigned to the 347th Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron, 99th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, lost a rudder approximately 30 miles from Denver, Colorado. The disabled RB-36 crew kept the airplane on an even flight path and decided the wide, long runway at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, was the best location to attempt a landing. The airplane was taking up to about 21,000 feet on the way to EAFB, and at approximately 6:30 p.m. two and a half hours after the rudder was lost, Deverle and Maj. William Thorstenson eased the 150-ton aircraft down for a landing. (Courtesy Photo)

PHOTO BY: Courtesy Photo
VIRIN: 170112-F-XXOOO-001.JPG
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