The "Ultimate Sacrifice Memorial"

Website Overview

The "Ultimate Sacrifice Memorial", a vision of Bob Ready, Cincinnati, Ohio, was created to pay tribute to the men and women who served in the USAAF during WW II. It was decided that an "Ultimate Sacrifice Memorial" would be built and would house a historic aircraft. While there are numerous aircraft that could well represent the air effort of WW II, the most notable was the B-17. So began the search for a B-17 that would ultimately find it's final and most respectable resting place in this new Memorial.

     In July 1999 we went to Greenland in search of a B-17E named "Sooner" and a B-17G that was so new its crew hadn't had time to give it a name.  Our goal was to bring home at least one of these pieces of history. However, due to weather, we had to cut our trip short. You can review the details of this expedition (includes many photographs) by clicking the link, "1999 Greenland Expedition" on the left hand navigation column.

     It then came to our attention that another B-17 aircraft (and a rare one at that) had already been salvaged but was sitting literally in pieces. This was "My Gal Sal". Arrangements were made to secure "My Gal Sal" and plans began immediately to restore her.

     As we began the actual restoration of "My Gal Sal", it was obvious that we had taken on a BIG challenge. However with the help that so many have offered, there is no question she will eventually be restored. We will provide pictures of the restoration within this website so that you can monitor "Sals" progress.

     I intend to regularly publish new stories that will relate to the different experiences of the crews of the 97th Bomb Group. Many of these stories will come out of the 97th Bomb Group’s diary. We will also share some of the life of hero’s hero, Col. Bernt Balchen, as told by his widow, Audrey. Col. Balchen was assigned to Greenland to head up the rescue efforts of the young crews who went down on their way to war. 

     History is being told and history is being preserved. By following the restoration of "My Gal Sal" you will better understand why these young men and women are truly the Greatest Generation.

Thanks for visiting.              

                     Bob Ready