Del City to dedicate tornado victim memorial

NEWS 9

Del City is planning a memorial to the victims of the May 3, 1999 tornadoes.

The memorial is almost complete near sooner Road and Del Aire Drive. A granite plaque that lists the names of the seven civilians and one airman who dies during rescue efforts in Del City.

More than 50 tornados ravaged the state nine years ago Moore was the worst hit. Entire neighborhoods and a Stroud outlet mall were destroyed. The tornadoes killed 44 people.

"We wanted to be sure that a monument was in place to commemorate probably the worst natural disaster that's ever occurred in Oklahoma, certainly the most traumatic experience that happened in Del City," City Manager Mark Edwards said. "I hope we never have to go through this again. I hope no community in Oklahoma ever has to experience this type of devastation."

The memorial will be finished and dedicated on Saturday following the Armed Forces Day parade. It's located at Sooner Road and Del Aire Drive.