The Doolittle Tokyo Raiders are in the final stages of planning their 68th reunion at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.
The reunion, slated for April 16-18, will include a free public autograph session, educational event and memorial service at the museum, as well as a dinner. In addition, a free public concert honoring the Raiders will take place at Wright State University’s Nutter Center.
Of the nine living Doolittle Tokyo Raiders, five are currently able to travel and plan to be on-hand for the reunion events, according to museum director Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Charles D. Metcalf.
“The Doolittle Tokyo Raiders are living legends and their story is a fascinating part of American history,” said Metcalf. “By hosting their reunion at the museum, the public will have a chance to meet them and perhaps get an autograph, but most importantly, thank them for their courageous and admirable service to our nation.”
As a possible special tribute to the Raiders during the reunion, the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders Association, Inc. is hoping to secure enough sponsorship funding to fly in and land 25 B-25 Mitchell Bombers on the runway behind the museum. If their efforts are successful, this aviation event would be the largest gathering of B-25s since World War II.
Those interested in helping to make this flight of B-25 bombers possible should contact Tom Casey with the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders Association, Inc. at 941- 921-7361 or by email at: [email protected].
The National Museum of the United States Air Force, in Dayton, Ohio, is open seven days a week. Admission and parking are free.
For more information: NationalMuseum.af.mil
