VALDOSTA, Ga. — World War II veteran Howard Hansford recalled losing 15 of his fellow airmen on a plane that exploded, a plane he was supposed to have boarded. 

Hansford served as a private first class in the Army Air Force and was on a “special project” when he was supposed to fly a B-29 to the Philippines.

“As we taxied down the runway, the plane developed a problem; they sent us back to the barracks,” he said.

He and the others were given orders to not leave the barracks; however, Hansford said he went to a nearby club for a “nice cold brew.”

“They loaded up the plane and left without me,” he said. “The plane exploded in mid-air and killed all 15 onboard. A lot of them I worked with.”

Hansford said Memorial Day is important because of the recognition of all military servicemen.

He was among the attendees at the Memorial Day observance hosted by American Legion Post 13 Monday morning at its headquarters.

The tone was solemn and sincere as military veterans, family members and community leaders gathered for the occasion honoring those who lost their lives while in the military.

Mayor John Gayle, Valdosta Police Chief Brian Childress and Lowndes County Commission Chairman Bill Slaughter spoke during the service.

Gayle thanked veterans for fighting for American freedom while also highlighting some of the obstacles they have endured.

“Those that have come back to struggle because their benefits have not been available to them; those who have been cursed at, spit at and you who have continued to serve and are committed to our beliefs, I thank you,” he said.

Col. Jason Gingrich, guest speaker, served in the Air Force. During his emotional speech, he acknowledged by name servicemen who have died while serving, including Capt. Mark Webber.

Webber served in the Air Force as a combat rescue officer in the 308th Rescue Squadron and was killed March 15 in a helicopter crash in Western Iraq, Gingrich said.

“These stories occur through bravery and the ultimate sacrifices repeated daily by service members around the world, and our nation is free because of these brave men and women,” he said.

The 61st Georgia Re-Enactors performed a 21-gun salute at the conclusion of the service.

Performing with them was David Guest, legionnaire and retired master sergeant from the Air Force. He served from 1981-2001, he said.

“We need to remember these men that came before us,” he said. “That’s why we’re here today and can do the things that we do because of what these men went through before us; and it’s an honor to be here today to remember them …”

Amanda Usher is a reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times. She can be contacted at 229-244-3400 ext.1274.