Air Tanker down at Stead (4SD) Crew Lost

[retroaviation]

I saw the wreck site today from the air, and it was sad. Just a big, black spot. I snapped a picture, but I've opted not to post it. Those tanker guys never get the credit they deserve. It's sad to see any lose their lives like this.

Gary

[Larry Kraus]

Someone sent me a link to an accurate (for once) news story concerning this accident and the pilot.I first met Gene Wahlstrom in Alamogordo in 1980 when he was looking for a co-pilot job on one of Black Hill's P-2's and I happened to be based there in a B-17.I agree with all of the comments concerning Gene that were quoted in the story.I'd known the co-pilot "Gonzo" for a number of years.He was also a great guy and tragically leaves a wife and small children without a husband and father.I never met Jake,the mechanic who was also onboard,but I'm sure that he will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

http://www.standard.net/live/news/142205//#

[BigGrey]

Very tragic indeed.
We were in Gardnerville NV and saw the smoke rising when the Burnside fire first started. We watched a Neptune working out of Minden NV. They were lucky to have a tanker base so close to the fire. It was very windy and there is no telling how much would have lost without those heroic tanker pilots and crews. My hat is off to the ground crews that fought the fire as well but the tankers controlled and contained the fire.
God bless those brave souls.

Les

[Canso42]

D***! I'm calling it a night with a prayer for their families.