Colonel Perkins survived the plane crash, but died because of the rescue.
A sad story in Chittenden.

The L-20 Beaver, a missing aircraft en route to Burlington, was finally spotted on this day in 1957. The search had taken a week.

Three officers were headed for an inspection tour of Army Reservists. The wreckage was spotted in the town of Chittenden. It is speculated that the plane changed direction when it encountered freezing rain and snow, and headed for Montpelier.

The plane caught on fire upon impact, killing all onboard except Colonel Perkins, who was thrown clear. He suffered minor injuries, but died three days later, most likely due to dehydration resulting from a botched and prolonged rescue.

Image courtesy of Brian Lindner, National Life Group.

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