David Saalfeld

Here is what Dave’s nominator had to say about him:

My Buddy Dave:
 
To list the interesting and amazing events of this man's life would require a whole book! 
 
Raised on a farm by a single mother during the depression, Dave learned to make the best of tough situations.  In the early 1940's, WW2 was on and Dave went directly from high school into the Army.  As part of the Army Air Corps, Dave piloted B17 bombers and helped win the war over Germany.  I have read that it was statistically impossible for a pilot to survive the 25 required bombing missions. Dave had 37 missions.  He simply says, "The Man upstairs must have had some reason for me to be here!"  Along with other honors and awards, Dave is a Purple Heart recipient.
 
I love introducing Dave to others as "Dave is a WW2 hero!"; first, because he truly is a hero; second, because there are so few left from that generation that it is important to call attention to the sacrifices that were made on our behalf and finally, I introduce him as a WW2 hero, because he would never take the title "Hero" on his own.  Dave says the heroes are the ones who never made it back, and he knew many of them.  Dave had continued service for our country with the Air Force and the CIA.

As a devoted husband and father Dave exemplifies "The Greatest Generation".  I'm honored that he considers me a friend!
 
Dave Saalfeld, 88 years young:


Dave and his Equalizer:

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your bravery and for the sacrifices you’ve made for all of us.