Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania
End of Watch Wednesday, April 12, 1989
Paul I. Almer
Corporal Paul Almer and Trooper Wayne Bilheimer were killed in a helicopter crash while searching for a body in the Susquehanna River in southern York County, Pennsylvania.
Corporal Almer was piloting the aircraft when it struck high-voltage power lines at an altitude of approximately 90 feet. The helicopter crashed into approximately ten feet of water, with both officers trapped inside. Trooper Bilheimer succumbed to multiple trauma injuries and Corporal Almer drowned. Both officers were found still strapped into their harnesses.
Corporal Almer had served with the Pennsylvania State Police for 14 years. He had previously served as a combat helicopter pilot with the United States Army during Vietnam War for 18 months. He was survived by his mother and fiancee.
Bio
- Age 39
- Tour 14 years, 1 month
- Badge Not available
- Military Veteran
Incident Details
- Cause Aircraft accident
Related LODD Deaths
Trooper Wayne Dennis Bilheimer
Pennsylvania State Police, PA
EOW: April 12, 1989
Most Recent Reflection
View all 18 ReflectionsI haven't thought of you since 1973. I googled your name today The news of your tragic and untimely death came up. I read it three times before I accepted it was you. I've shed many tears since and found myself walking around talking to you.
We met just before you shipped out to Vietnam. I went there awhile ago and saw their museum to the war and went in the jungle and saw one of their camps and what you were up againt. It's a lovely museum and I she a tear or two when I saw the Huey.
Wow ! All those letters and care packages - everyday I'd go to my mail box and often there was your letter. You always treated me with so much respect. You were stellar at that! I'm flooded with wonderful memories. I've notice no one mentioned you were awarded the bronze and silver stars so I will.
I'm saddened by your tragic, young death. I take comfort in knowing you were well respected in your profession and had found the woman you wished to marry.
I'll end with your favorite quote - If your not making waves, your standing still. When you were in Nam I made a wall hanging with that embrodered on it, a package you never got.
Rest in peace. Paul. Love, Margaret
Margaret
Friend
November 23, 2015
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