On a fateful day in the history of aviation, just before the crash of the B-70 Valkyrie and the F-104 Starfighter, the skies were filled with the promise of technological prowess and the thrill of human achievement. The B-70 Valkyrie, a marvel of engineering, symbolized the cutting-edge advancements of the 1960s, designed to be a high-altitude, high-speed strategic bomber capable of evading Soviet defenses. Alongside it flew the nimble F-104 Starfighter, a sleek interceptor jet renowned for its speed and agility.

On June 8, 1966, these two aircraft were involved in a mid-air collision during a photo formation flight, a mission intended to capture the glory of these advanced machines in flight. The B-70 was piloted by Alvin S. White and Carl Cross, while the F-104 was flown by NASA’s Joseph A. Walker, a skilled test pilot and astronaut with an impressive career.

In the moments leading up to the crash, the formation flew in a tight, precise pattern. The pilots, consummate professionals, maneuvered their aircraft with precision and grace, their focus unwavering. The F-104, however, encountered turbulence from the B-70’s wake, causing it to roll and collide with the Valkyrie. The impact was catastrophic: the F-104 was destroyed instantly, and the B-70 suffered severe damage, leading to an uncontrollable descent.

The collision resulted in the tragic loss of Joseph A. Walker and Carl Cross. Walker, a decorated test pilot and a pioneer in the field of aviation, had contributed significantly to the development of advanced aircraft and space exploration. Carl Cross, though less well-known, was an experienced aviator dedicated to the progress of aviation technology.

In the aftermath of the crash, the aviation community mourned the loss of these two brave pilots. Their deaths underscored the inherent risks of pushing the boundaries of flight and the ever-present dangers faced by those who strive to explore new frontiers. The crash also led to increased scrutiny and improvements in safety protocols for flight testing and formation flying.

The legacy of the B-70 and the F-104, and the pilots who flew them, lives on in the annals of aviation history. Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of technological advancement and the bravery of those who dare to push the limits of what is possible. Rest in peace, Walker and the B-70 pilot, Carl Cross. Your contributions and sacrifices will never be forgotten.