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In the U.S. even that is not always enough!

Posted by Karen on Fri Jul 05, 2002 11:32:59 AM

In reply top My personal views on anyone selling bits from crash sites posted by jerry brewer on Fri Jul 05, 2002 11:03:55 AM

Hi,

I think my feelings concerning the respect and honor that any pilot recovered from a crash site should receive are pretty well known, so I won't address that.

I agree with you completely that no profit should be made from the recovery of pieces in which pilot and or crew were killed.

In our case, it was understood that local law enforcement had received an agreement that the only way the pieces of my Uncle's plane, that we did not take possession of, were to be sold, was as solitary unit, and they were to be used only for a rebuild. There was sadly, no written agreement.

Less then one month after the remains of Dean's P-51 were donated to a warbird parts dealer, they appeared on Ebay for sale. It makes me sick to think that pieces of what was in essence Dean's coffin, are now sitting on someone's mantle as a display item. They were listed as being genuine WWII P-51 parts, recovered from a Florida Lake. When I contacted the local authorities, they expressed their dismay, and regret, but stopped there.

I think ALL governments should address what the rules should be when human beings are involved. If this generation does not deal with this now, there will soon be no remains left to recover. These brave men gave their lives so we could all enjoy the freedom's we now have, they deserve the utmost respect and care when dealing with what they have left behind. Be it their machines or themselves.

As always, just my opinion.......
Karen

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