Almost too hard to believe that a World War II Curtiss SB2C Helldiver, the Navy's primary attack and bombing plane, has been found in a heavily wooded area of Oregon. There is also the belief that its two crew members' remains might also be found.
Dozens of pieces, including a wing, tail section and landing gear were found last week over a 200 yard area. Based on the model number, it likely crashed some time after 1945.
The Helldivers replaced the Dauntless in 1943 and carried two men, had a top speed of 295 mph, and could carry 1000 pounds of bombs or an internal torpedo (not exactly sure what this means). They were originally built in 1939, but production problems and poor handling kept them from use until 1943.
At least three planes disappeared in the area from 1945 to 1948 and there is the possibility that it might be the 1948 one.
Only one Helldiver remains flying today.
Hopefully the Crew Remains Will Be Recovered. --DaCoot
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