USS AKRON over SF

Flying over the city of San Francisco the USS. Akron was the "twin sister" to the USS Macon. This picture is from the Akron's first and only visit to San Francisco Bay area in May 13, 1932. Sadly, the Akron was lost less than 1 year later on April 4, 1933 when it crashed into the Atlantic ocean during a terrible storm. 73 out of the 76 crew died due to no one having brought life jackets on board, as this was supposed to be a routine flight. Amongst those lost were Rear Admiral William Moffett, who wanted to take one last ride on the ship he helped create, as he was to retire within a couple of weeks.