Nuclear Mishap Historical Marker

The Nuclear Mishap Historical Marker in Fremont, NC commemorates a significant event during the height of the Cold War. In January 1961, a B-52G Stratofortress Bomber carrying two nuclear bombs crashed near Goldsboro, narrowly averting a widespread disaster. Three crew members lost their lives in the accident, but the prompt action of a crew-controlled switch prevented a nuclear detonation.

This incident, known as the Goldsboro Broken Arrow, highlighted the potential dangers associated with nuclear weapons and led to the development of stronger controls over their detonation. The marker serves as a reminder of the close call and the importance of safety measures in handling such weapons. Despite the release of the bombs, no contamination was found in periodic groundwater tests conducted by the state.

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