Happy Valley in Clackamas County, Oregon — The American West (Northwest)
King 56 Aircrew Memorial
Photographed By Kevin W., September 26, 2008
1. King 56 Aircrew Memorial Marker front
In memory of the 304th Rescue Squadron aircrew members, who lost their lives on board aircraft King 56, while performing a training mission on the night of November 22, 1996. These men were Citizen Soldiers committed to the preservation of the heritage of their nation. Because of this tragedy, we lost some of the soul of our country. You will not be forgotten.Lt. Col John W. Keyes Capt Robert P. Schott Capt Kirk A. Wellnitz Capt Brant G. Ferrarini SMSgt Robert J. Roberts TSgt David W. McAuley SSgt Marvin H. Forrest SSgt Jonathon R. Leonard SSgt James R. Johnson SSgt Ronald E. Garner, Jr.
Erected 2006 by members of the 304th Rescue Squadron.
Topics and series. This historical marker and memorial is listed in these topic lists: Military • Notable Events. In addition, it is included in the National Cemeteries series list. A significant historical date for this entry is November 22, 1996.
Location. 45° 27.439′ N, 122° 32.425′ W. Marker is in Happy Valley, Oregon, in Clackamas County. Marker is on Willamette National Cemetery Road
Photographed By Kevin W., September 26, 2008
2. King 56 Aircrew Memorial Marker back
The back of the granite memorial includes an image of a C-130 flying overhead with a pararescueman being lowered to assist an injured servicemember.
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 6 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Willamette National Cemetery Carillon Bells (approx. 0.3 miles away); Oregon Korean War Veterans Memorial (approx. 0.4 miles away); Grinding Rock (approx. 5.1 miles away); Area Commerce (approx. 5.1 miles away); The Baker Family (approx. 5.1 miles away); The Baker Cabin Overview (approx. 5.1 miles away); The Baker Cabin (approx. 5.1 miles away); Baker Site (approx. 5.1 miles away).
More about this memorial. This marker was originally located at the 939th Air Refueling Wing 304th Air Rescue Squadron area at the Portland Air Base (Portland International Airport). The unit was disbanded as a result of a Base Realignment and Closure decision in 2005. The memorial was moved to Willamette National Cemetery and rededicated on November 17, 2006. Eight of the ten crewmembers from King 56 have markers or headstones at Willamette.
Photographed By Kevin W., September 26, 2008
3. King 56 Aircrew Memorial Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on May 1, 2020. It was originally submitted on October 1, 2008, by Kevin W. of Stafford, Virginia. This page has been viewed 3,417 times since then and 62 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 1, 2008, by Kevin W. of Stafford, Virginia.
