Bower, Ellsworth toast to Doolittle Raiders

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Zachary Hada
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen and special guests gathered for a solemn event at the Dakota's Club April 18 to mark the 72nd anniversary of the historic Doolittle Raid.

The event - a final toast - paid tribute to the 80 aviators who conducted the daring raid on Japan that helped boost America's morale during World War II.

"The men of the Doolittle Raiders clearly set the bar high above the rest," said Col. Gregory Payne, 28th Operations Group commander. "As members of the United States Air Force, we should take great pride and draw strength from those Airmen who went before us. Gen. Jimmy Doolittle and the Raiders are the epitome of that pride and strength - it's a privilege to take part in this toast."

Airmen presently assigned to the 34th Bomb Squadron, 37th BS and 432nd Attack Squadron - three of the four original units that conducted the mission and now call Ellsworth home continue - to honor their proud heritage.

Every member of the squadrons, as well as those serving with them in other base units, can take pride in being tied to the bombing pioneers and strive to honor their heritage.

During the toast James Bower, son of Doolittle Raider Col. Bill Bower, explained that 72 years ago, the brave men of the Doolittle Raid flew 16 B-25 Mitchell bombers off the deck of the aircraft carrier the U.S.S. Hornet and headed to the coast of Japan to wreak havoc on the Japanese empire and to defend our nation.

"They accomplished their mission and achieved something so remarkable that, 72 years later, they are still regarded as heroes," Bower said. "I'm so thankful that my father is a part of that legacy."

Bower led everyone in attendance in a toast to honor the legacy these Airmen left behind.
"To those who gave their all for the success of the mission and for those who have since joined them, may they rest in peace for those who have gone," Bower said.

The event concluded with Col. Kevin Kennedy, 28th Bomb Wing commander, providing final remarks.

"It's our job to ensure that we keep this history alive within our units, especially those that have a direct tie to the Doolittle Raiders," Kennedy said. "To everyone who came out today, thank you for joining us and thank you for your support."