SE Wyoming News

U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) have introduced a resolution to honor the crew of the Star Valley, a U.S. Army Air Corps B-24 Liberator that crashed during World War II. The resolution acknowledges their sacrifice in defending the nation.

“Afton’s Sergeant Wilford T. Heninger served our country and Wyoming with distinction. He left a legacy of service, dedication, and patriotism for future generations to emulate. The crew of the B-24 Liberator Star Valley honored his legacy by naming their aircraft after him,” said Senator Barrasso. “This brave crew ultimately gave their lives to defend our nation and freedoms in a mission over France in 1944. Our resolution honors the crew of the Star Valley B-24, Sergeant Heninger, and all the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War II.”

“The crew of the Star Valley represented our state triumphantly and served our nation with great honor and distinction,” stated Senator Lummis. “These men and their families made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great country, and our resolution ensures their memory and unwavering dedication to defending the freedoms we hold so dear lives on.”

On February 5, 1944, the Star Valley crashed near Saint-Leonard-en-Beauce, France, after being named in honor of an Army Air Corps servicemember from Afton, Wyoming who died in a training accident. Nine service members perished while one was held as a prisoner of war until liberation in 1945.

Each May, Saint-Leonard-en-Beauce hosts a ceremony honoring victims of World War II including the crew of the Star Valley.

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