The Museum of Flight, Seattle, WA, will host a public event on April 18 to commemorate the anniversary of the Doolittle Raid, the first U.S. air raid on Japan during World War II. The program will run from noon to 2 p.m. and will center on a traditional Air Force toast held each year to honor the crews of the 16 B-25B Mitchell bombers that took part in the mission. Led by Lt. Col. James H. Doolittle, the operation marked a significant early moment in the Pacific War, and those who participated became known as the Doolittle Raiders.
The Seattle event is part of a broader observance held by Air and Space Forces Association members, military units, and participants around the world, many of whom will take part in the commemorative toast at the same time. According to organizers, the program will include a presentation of the colors by the University of Washington Air Force ROTC Color Guard, recognition of family members of the Doolittle Raiders, and a brief historical overview of the mission. A live stream of related memorial events taking place elsewhere will also be included.
Following the ceremony, author John Fredrickson is scheduled to speak about his book Doolittle Raid Doctor, which details the experiences of flight surgeon Dr. David “Doc” White during the mission and the crew’s escape from occupied China. A book signing is planned after the presentation. The event is hosted by the Air & Space Forces Association Greater Seattle Chapter and is included with general admission to the museum. Admission is free for museum members. For more information and to support The Museum of Flight, click on the link: www.museumofflight.org.
