- Joined
- Aug 8, 2007
- Messages
- 6,542
- Reaction score
- 247
- Points
- 63
- Location
- Anchorage, Alaska
- Vehicle Year
- 2019
- Make / Model
- Ford
- Transmission
- Automatic
Hey guys. There was a KB-29 that crashed in the Talkeetna Mountains here in Alaska the day after Christmas in 1956. The locals had known about it and visited the site for many years even though it is fairly remote and difficult to get to. In June of 2005 a bunch of guys (me included) in one of the local off road clubs got together, donated time and money to have a plaque made to commemorate and honor the sacrifice made by the crew who all perished in the crash. We had a plaque cast, made a trip to the site and mounted it to one of the wings.
The story got out and some of the family members became aware and contacted us. Several of the families came to Alaska to see the wreck. At least one, a son had never met his father and never really knew what had happened to him. It was a pretty emotional time for all. We were able to organize an impromptu memorial service. The families brought pictures and slides and told stories. Most of them were meeting for the first time.
We had planned to drive them to the site but the weather didn’t cooperate and we were unable to do so. This is a VERY steep trail and turns into a sheet of glass when wet. Not fun or safe. Some of the younger, more fit members hiked to the site but, unfortunately, many were unable due to age or illness.
The plaque was stolen this summer. We would like to replace it but the cost of casting a new plaque has gone way up. The original was about $500. The replacement will be over $3400. If any of you are interested in donating to this cause, any amount would be appreciated.
Here is a link to the original trip report if you are interested. Some good pictures of the trip and the site. http://www.alaska4x4network.com/showthread.php?t=8709&highlight=kb-29+plaque
If you are able to donate, use PayPal and send money to the address below.
KB29plaque@aol.com
If you would prefer, PM me and I’ll send you my address. We will close the account and return all money after the cost of the plaque has been met.
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