Events

Learn some history in the Franklin Mountains. In July 1944 a Second B-24 crashed into the Franklin Mountains (March 1944 was the first one) on a night training mission, killing all aboard. (In WWII, over 15,000 servicemen were lost in aviation accidents while training in the US.) This 3-3.5 hours, moderate to difficult hike will be up and over a hill, down into a small canyon, then a scramble up another side cut to the actual Memorial. There is a significant amount of debris from the crash still in place, including landing gear and some other large parts of the plane. Respect and State Park Regulations mean everything stays where it is, but there is a fair amount of wreckage to examine. There is not a trail to get to the Memorial, so bring sturdy footwear for rocky and spiky terrain. Bring a couple of liters of water, some snacks and sunscreen. Hats and gloves are recommended as well, and a hiking stick can be useful on the terrain as well. Not recommended for pets or children. Meet at the intersection of Kentucky St. and Memphis Ave.