Sgt. Robert L. Crowder

Our Hometown Heroes

Robert L. Crowder

Flew “The Hump” between China and India

Robert L. Crowder was a Sgt. in the US Army-Air Corps. He flew what was known as “The Hump” during World War II between China and India. This flight path went over the highest mountains in the world.

Born in Griffin on September 28, 1920, Crowder was the son of Otis and Opal Moore Crowder. He attended school in Griffin and was employed by the Fairfax Mills in West Point. Crowder entered the military to serve his country on June 18, 1942. He served in the Army-Air Corps.

The lack of accurate charts made flying over, “The Hump” even more dangerous for the US planes helping support the Chinese efforts against Japan. Weather information and navigational aids were not what they are today.

During one of these transport missions, January 6, 1945, Crowder and his plane went down into the treacherous mountains. He was officially declared Killed in Action on January 7, 1946. For his heroism during World War II, Crowder was awarded the APTO (Asia Pacific Campaign) ribbon, the Soldiers Medal, the Purple Heart and the Presidential Citation of Death.

His body was never found but his name is listed on the Tablets of the Missing in the American Cemetery, Manila, Philippines.

Information on Sgt. Crowder was provided by Griffin resident, Jim Hall, a friend of the Crowder family.