WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced a resolution honoring the crew of the Star Valley, a U.S. Army Air Corps B-24 Liberator that crashed during World War II, and recognizing their sacrifice to defend our great nation.

“THE SPIRIT OF STAR VALLEY” LIVES ON IN FRANCE – May 1, 2024 Feature Story –

“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,” said 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, named in honor of an Army Air Corp servicemember from Afton, Wyoming, who died in a training accident, crashed near the French village of Saint-Leonard-en Beauce. Nine service members died and 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.

Read a copy of the resolution here.