KSWT: Local News, Weather, Sports Yuma, AZ El Centro Imperial Valley, CA | Youth Organization Honors Veterans In Unique Way

Youth Organization Honors Veterans In Unique Way

Reported By: Rob Hughes (rhughes@kswt.com)

Yuma, AZ November 11- A local youth organization honors Veterans in a unique way. Yuma's Venture Crew 8051 wanted to go above and beyond, just like the heroes we support every November.

"It's a day that we should remember, and think about those men and women that bought the freedom that we have," said Ed Maxwell, a volunteer with Yuma Venture Crew 8051.

 Maxwell was 13 years old when five Army airmen in the prime of their lives were killed when their B-17 Bomber crashed into the Gila Mountains during a training flight in 1944; 65 years later, he's showing the next generation the sacrifices that were made for them.

"I heard about this B-17, and I've been up here several times, and thought about the men that lost their lives, and how much we owe to them, and the kids came to me and wanted to know if I would show them how to get up here, and I said sure," said Maxwell.

Ed, along with 25 Venture Crew 8051 members and volunteers visited the crash site Wednesday; crosses mark where the airmen's bodies were found, and wreckage can still be seen from the bomber.

"It was about coming out here and honoring our Veterans on Veteran's Day; it was something a little different than going and just watching the parade and being in it, like what other people do; it was really different and a unique experience for us; I think it's really cool we were able to come out and recognize Veterans," said Jacqueline Butler, Venture Crew 8051 President.

The crew hiked to the top of the peak where the bomber crashed, placed an American flag, and held a memorial service to honor more than a million Americans who have given their lives so we can live.

On top of this gorgeous mountain, you can hear fallen heroes from past and present whisper, don't forget us.

Yuma's Venture Crew 8051 is a co-ed youth organization that is part of the Boy Scouts of America. The organization promotes academics, leadership, service, discipline, and the outdoors. For more information, and if you're interested in joining, contact President Jacqueline Butler at (928) 446-3445.