Bomber Mountain facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bomber Mountain |
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Cloud Peak (left) and Bomber Mountain (right) as seen from Lake Helen.
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 12,840+ feet (3914+ m) NGVD 29 |
| Prominence | 1,120 ft (340 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Johnson / Big Horn counties, Wyoming, U.S. |
| Parent range | Bighorn Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Lake Helen |
Bomber Mountain is a high point in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming, United States. It is located right next to Cloud Peak, which is the tallest mountain in this mountain range. Bomber Mountain is about 23 miles (37 km) west of the town of Buffalo. The mountain got its name in 1946 because of a military airplane accident that happened there in 1943.
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Discovering Bomber Mountain
Bomber Mountain is a significant peak in the Bighorn Mountains. It is known for its rugged beauty and its interesting history. The mountain reaches an elevation of over 12,840 feet (3914 meters). This makes it one of the higher peaks in the area.
Where is Bomber Mountain Located?
Bomber Mountain is found in the northern part of Wyoming. It sits on the border between Johnson County and Big Horn County. The mountain is part of the larger Bighorn Mountains range. This range is a popular spot for outdoor activities.
How Did Bomber Mountain Get Its Name?
The name "Bomber Mountain" comes from a real event that happened during World War II. In 1943, a military airplane crashed on the mountain. This event was very important to the local area. Because of this crash, the mountain was officially named Bomber Mountain in 1946.
The 1943 Plane Crash
On June 28, 1943, a U.S. Army Air Forces B-17F Flying Fortress bomber was on a training flight. The plane was flying from Gore Field in Great Falls, Montana. Its destination was Grand Island Army Airfield in Grand Island, Nebraska. The crew included ten airmen.
During the flight, the plane encountered bad weather. It was flying through heavy clouds and storms. The aircraft crashed into the side of the mountain. Sadly, all ten crew members on board lost their lives. The wreckage of the plane remained on the mountain.
Remembering the Event
The crash site is still on Bomber Mountain today. It serves as a memorial to the airmen who died. Over the years, the site has been visited by many people. It reminds visitors of the sacrifices made during wartime. The story of the crash is an important part of Wyoming's history. It also highlights the dangers faced by military pilots during training.
