Are you trying to identify a historic football team and came across the tragic story of the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs? This article explores the identity of that team, the devastating plane crash that took the lives of many players, and the lasting legacy of resilience and remembrance. At CAUHOI2025.UK.COM, we provide reliable and comprehensive information to address your questions and expand your understanding. Discover more about sports history, aviation safety, and stories of human strength.
1. The 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs: A Team Remembered
The football team in question is the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs. This team tragically experienced a plane crash on October 29, 1960, which resulted in the loss of 22 lives, including 16 players, the student manager, a booster, and others on board. The crash deeply impacted the Cal Poly community and led to significant changes in aviation safety regulations.
1.1. Who Were the Cal Poly Mustangs?
The Cal Poly Mustangs represent California Polytechnic State University, a public university located in San Luis Obispo, California. The football program has a long history, and the 1960 team was part of that legacy. They competed in college football and were known for their dedication and sportsmanship.
1.2. What Was the Significance of the 1960 Team?
The 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs were notable not only for their athletic endeavors but also for the tragic circumstances surrounding their season. The plane crash that occurred while traveling back from a game against Bowling Green State University in Ohio brought national attention to the university and the team.
2. The Tragic Plane Crash of October 29, 1960
The Arctic-Pacific chartered plane carrying the Cal Poly Mustangs football team crashed on takeoff at the Toledo, Ohio, airport on October 29, 1960. Dense fog was later determined to be a major factor in the accident. This event became a turning point for aviation safety and left an indelible mark on the university and the nation.
2.1. What Happened on That Fateful Day?
The team was returning from a game against Bowling Green State University when their chartered plane crashed during takeoff. Of the 48 people on board the Curtiss C-46 aircraft, 22 perished, and 26 were injured, some critically. The dense fog hampered rescue efforts, adding to the tragedy.
2.2. How Did the University Respond?
In the aftermath of the crash, Vice President Robert Kennedy and Dean Clyde Fisher began the difficult task of notifying the families of those who were lost. The university community mourned the loss, and a memorial service was held to honor the victims. Flags were lowered to half-mast across the campus and San Luis Obispo County.
Front page of the extra edition of the San Luis Obispo County Telegram Tribune, Sunday, October 30, 1960.
3. The Aftermath and Impact on Aviation Safety
The Cal Poly air disaster led to significant changes in aviation policy. Previously, pilots could take off in bad weather if they chose to do so. However, the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) subsequently ordered that air traffic controllers, rather than pilots, would authorize departures.
3.1. What Changes Were Implemented?
The FAA implemented a new order specifying that permission to take off would be denied to any commercial airline carrying passengers or property when runway visibility is less than one-quarter mile or visual range is less than 2,000 feet. This order applied to all airlines, including non-scheduled charter flights.
3.2. How Did the Red Cross Assist?
The Red Cross played a crucial role in the aftermath of the accident. Volunteers compiled reports from area hospitals on the condition of survivors, conveyed personal messages to families, and worked with local chapters to assist family members. They also provided funds for travel and living expenses. According to the American Red Cross, disaster relief is a core service, providing immediate assistance to those affected by tragedies.
4. Memorials and Remembrance
The Cal Poly community sought ways to honor the dead, the injured, and their families. A memorial fund was established to accept charitable contributions, and various benefit events were organized to support the survivors.
4.1. What Memorials Were Created?
A plaque memorializing the 1960 football team members who lost their lives was placed at the foot of the flagpole in Mustang Stadium. A duplicate plaque was placed in the peristyle end of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum after the 1961 Mercy Bowl game.
4.2. The Mercy Bowl: A Nation Unites
Los Angeles County Supervisor Warren Dorn and entertainer Bob Hope organized the “Mercy Bowl” to raise funds for the Memorial Fund and aid crash survivors and families. On November 23, 1961, Fresno State played against Bowling Green State at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The event attracted a crowd of 33,145 and significantly contributed to the Memorial Fund.
5. The 1961 Season and the Legacy of Resilience
Despite the tragedy, Cal Poly continued its football program. The 1961 season saw 35 players suited up, 10 of whom were crash survivors. The university restricted travel to FAA-approved commercial carriers and limited athletic travel to states bordering California.
5.1. How Did the Team Rebuild?
The surviving team members, along with new players, demonstrated remarkable resilience. They continued to play, honoring the memory of their fallen teammates and showing the strength of the Cal Poly community.
5.2. Lasting Impact on the University
The crash remains a significant part of Cal Poly’s history. President Baker noted that it “was certainly a tragic event for the university. And it’s a part of the history of the university. It’s important to remember them.”
A page from the Life magazine article, November 14, 1960.
6. Key Figures in the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs Story
Several individuals played pivotal roles in the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs story, both in the team’s formation and in the aftermath of the tragic plane crash. These figures include players, coaches, university officials, and community members who rallied to support the team and its legacy. Recognizing these individuals helps to fully appreciate the context and impact of the events.
6.1. Players and Coaches
- Curtis Hill: A star receiver for the Mustangs, remembered for his athletic talent and leadership.
- Al Maranai: A standout sophomore lineman who sustained severe leg injuries in the crash but remained a symbol of resilience.
- John Madden: A former tackle with the Cal Poly Mustangs (1957-1958) who arranged a benefit match to support the Memorial Fund.
- Roy Hughes: The football coach who led the team through the difficult 1961 season, helping the surviving players rebuild.
6.2. University Officials and Community Leaders
- Julian McPhee: The President of Cal Poly at the time, who provided leadership and support to the university community in the wake of the tragedy.
- Robert Kennedy: The Vice President who assisted in notifying families of the victims, showcasing the national significance of the event.
- Clyde Fisher: The Dean who chaired the Memorial Fund Committee, responsible for disbursing the funds to survivors and families.
- Warren Dorn: The Los Angeles County Supervisor who, along with Bob Hope, conceived the idea of the “Mercy Bowl” to support the Memorial Fund.
6.3. Other Key Individuals
- Bob Hope: The entertainer who co-organized the “Mercy Bowl,” bringing national attention and support to the Cal Poly community.
- Roy Easley: Captain of the L.A. State team, who encouraged college teams nationwide to support the Memorial Fund through ticket purchases.
7. The Significance of the Mercy Bowl
The Mercy Bowl, held on Thanksgiving Day in 1961, was a pivotal event in the aftermath of the Cal Poly Mustangs tragedy. Organized by Los Angeles County Supervisor Warren Dorn and entertainer Bob Hope, the game was conceived to raise funds for the Memorial Fund and aid crash survivors and families. Its success and impact underscore the sense of national unity and support that emerged in response to the disaster.
7.1. Event Details
- Date: November 23, 1961
- Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
- Teams: Fresno State vs. Bowling Green State
- Attendance: 33,145
- Purpose: To raise funds for the Cal Poly Student Memorial Fund
7.2. Key Participants
- Warren Dorn and Bob Hope: Originators of the Mercy Bowl concept, leveraging their influence to organize and promote the event.
- Ferron Losee: Athletic director at L.A. State, who assisted in organizing the Mercy Bowl.
- Roy Easley: Captain of the L.A. State team, who solicited support from college teams nationwide.
7.3. Impact and Legacy
- Fundraising Success: The Mercy Bowl attracted a large crowd and generated significant funds for the Memorial Fund, providing financial assistance to survivors and families.
- National Unity: The event symbolized a nationwide outpouring of support for the Cal Poly community, demonstrating the power of sports to unite people in times of tragedy.
- Lasting Remembrance: The Mercy Bowl helped to ensure that the memory of the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs and the victims of the plane crash would endure.
8. Lessons Learned from the Cal Poly Mustangs Tragedy
The tragic events surrounding the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs offer several profound lessons about resilience, community, and the importance of safety regulations. These lessons continue to resonate today, influencing both aviation practices and our understanding of how to support communities in times of crisis.
8.1. Resilience in the Face of Tragedy
- Team and Community: The surviving members of the Cal Poly Mustangs and the broader university community demonstrated remarkable resilience in the aftermath of the plane crash. They continued to play and support one another, honoring the memory of those lost.
- Individual Strength: Stories like that of Al Maranai, who sustained severe injuries but remained a symbol of strength, highlight the capacity for individuals to overcome adversity.
8.2. The Importance of Community Support
- Outpouring of Aid: The nationwide outpouring of support, exemplified by events like the Mercy Bowl, underscored the importance of community solidarity in times of crisis.
- Role of Organizations: The Red Cross played a crucial role in providing immediate assistance and support to the victims and their families, demonstrating the value of organized humanitarian efforts.
8.3. Advancing Safety Regulations
- Aviation Policy Changes: The Cal Poly air disaster served as a catalyst for significant changes in aviation policy, leading to stricter regulations and improved safety measures.
- Preventative Measures: The FAA’s decision to give air traffic controllers the authority to authorize departures in adverse weather conditions was a direct result of the crash, preventing similar tragedies in the future.
8.4. Remembering and Honoring the Fallen
- Memorials and Remembrance: The memorials created to honor the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs, such as the plaques in Mustang Stadium and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, serve as lasting tributes to those who were lost.
- Educational Value: Remembering the tragedy helps to educate future generations about the importance of safety and the value of community support.
9. Remembering the Names
It’s important to remember the names of those who perished in the crash. They were students, athletes, friends, and family members whose lives were cut short.
- Larry Austin, 23, Physical Education sophomore
- Rod Baughn, 21, Mechanical Engineering junior
- John Bell, 26, Physical Education sophomore
- Dean Carlson, 20, Mechanical Engineering sophomore
- Joel Copeland, 23, Physical Education junior
- Victor Hall, 23, Social Science junior
- Guy Hennigan, 20, Physical Education junior
- Curtis Hill, 21, Physical Education senior
- Marshall Kulju, 20, Aeronautical Engineering junior
- Jim Ledbetter, 19, Aeronautical Engineering sophomore
- Lynn Lobaugh, 20, Social Science junior
- Wendell Miner, 21, Journalism sophomore and team manager
- Don O’Meara, 25, Physical Education junior
- Ray Porras, 27, Physical Education senior
- Wayne Sorenson, 20, Social Science sophomore
- Bill Stewart, 19, Physical Education sophomore
- Gary Van Horn, 22, Crops senior
- Pete Bachino, San Luis Obispo insurance broker and team supporter
Surviving team members with football coach Roy Hughes.
10. FAQ: Understanding the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the story of the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs and the tragic plane crash.
Q1: What was the main cause of the Cal Poly plane crash?
A1: Dense fog was determined to be a major contributing factor to the crash.
Q2: How many people died in the crash?
A2: 22 people died, including 16 players, the student manager, a booster, and others on board.
Q3: What changes in aviation policy resulted from the crash?
A3: The FAA ordered that air traffic controllers, rather than pilots, would authorize departures, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Q4: What was the Mercy Bowl?
A4: The Mercy Bowl was a benefit football game organized to raise funds for the Cal Poly Student Memorial Fund and aid crash survivors and families.
Q5: Who organized the Mercy Bowl?
A5: Los Angeles County Supervisor Warren Dorn and entertainer Bob Hope organized the Mercy Bowl.
Q6: How did the Red Cross help after the crash?
A6: The Red Cross provided reports on survivors, conveyed messages to families, and offered financial assistance for travel and living expenses.
Q7: How many players were on the 1961 team after the crash?
A7: The 1961 team had 35 players, 10 of whom were crash survivors.
Q8: Where is the memorial for the 1960 team located?
A8: A plaque memorializing the team is at the foot of the flagpole in Mustang Stadium, with a duplicate in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Q9: What was the name of the plane that crashed?
A9: The plane was a Curtiss C-46 aircraft chartered from Arctic-Pacific.
Q10: How can I learn more about the Cal Poly Mustangs’ history?
A10: Visit the Cal Poly University website or library archives for more information and historical records.
Conclusion
The story of the 1960 Cal Poly Mustangs is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit. The tragic plane crash led to important changes in aviation safety and brought the Cal Poly community closer together. By remembering the names of those who were lost and honoring their legacy, we ensure that their story continues to inspire resilience and compassion.
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