Twenty four years ago, on the evening of May 3, 1999 beginning to the west of Oklahoma City was one of the most prolific tornado outbreaks in Oklahoma history.
In all, 72 tornados completely destroyed more than 8,000 homes, caused $1.5 billion in damage and killing 36 people. Of those 36, two were part of the American Freightways family.
Anthony P. Battaglia and Jerry Webb were at the OKC Center when the EF5 tornado hit. Within seconds, the entire building was gone
Since there was no tornado shelters on the property, the only thing Anthony and Jerry could do was to gather up the 25 employees and huddle by the concrete ramp structure. Using their bodies as shields, they squeezed into that small space as debris rained from the skies. American Freightways power units were tossed like toys, one was found on top the also now destroyed General Motors Assembly plant. Converter dollies/gears were found 4-5 miles away. As a group, the employees were badly injured but alive. Unfortunately, Anthony and Jerry did not join them, both were killed in the deadly weather.
Anthony, age 37, left behind his 2 year old son and his wife, who was 6 months pregnant.
Jerry, age 52, was survived by his wife and 9 children.
Rest in peace knowing that you are not forgotten.
In all, 72 tornados completely destroyed more than 8,000 homes, caused $1.5 billion in damage and killing 36 people. Of those 36, two were part of the American Freightways family.
Anthony P. Battaglia and Jerry Webb were at the OKC Center when the EF5 tornado hit. Within seconds, the entire building was gone
Since there was no tornado shelters on the property, the only thing Anthony and Jerry could do was to gather up the 25 employees and huddle by the concrete ramp structure. Using their bodies as shields, they squeezed into that small space as debris rained from the skies. American Freightways power units were tossed like toys, one was found on top the also now destroyed General Motors Assembly plant. Converter dollies/gears were found 4-5 miles away. As a group, the employees were badly injured but alive. Unfortunately, Anthony and Jerry did not join them, both were killed in the deadly weather.
Anthony, age 37, left behind his 2 year old son and his wife, who was 6 months pregnant.
Jerry, age 52, was survived by his wife and 9 children.
Rest in peace knowing that you are not forgotten.
