"My Gal Sal" Restoration Progress
Current plans are to restore her to the same condition she would have been in after she ditched on the glacier in Greenland. These are photos from the fuselage restoration under way in California.
Click on an image to see a larger version.
These two photographs show "My Gal Sal" in 1965. The government removed a few of her parts for review to see how they stood up under the arctic conditions. As you can see our restoration is very challenging.
"Sal" as she appeared before her return to the U.S.
Loaded and heading for restoration. Fuselage from tail gunner to bombardier position is being restored in California. All other components including wings, stabilizer, gear, cockpit, etc. is being done in Ohio.
Unloaded from truck and set in position.
Cockpit needs a little work.
Dismantling begins.
Original squadron emblem, skull and bombs painted on side of fuselage by crew prior to departing the U.S.
New ribs arrive and set in place.
Waist gunners position.
Lt. Stinson's name just below cockpit window.
New ribs arrive and set into place.
Original skin now being put back into place.
Bulkhead between radio compartment and aft section being put into place.
Ball Turret
Tail Gunners Section
Main aft fuselage being put back together.
Gun mounts and walkway set into position.
A little paint and a few rivets, and we'll have a cockpit.
Original cockpit skin.
Nick is trying to put the puzzle together.
Rear landing gear being installed.