B-25 Mitchell bombers are tethered to the deck of the USS Hornet for their long trek from Calif. to Tokyo. The bombers were modified to make them as light as possible and the tail guns were replaced with black painted broom handles to deter enemy fighters but to decrease take-off weight. Later, newly promoted Brig. Gen James Doolittle, who led the raid, said the broom handles were surprisingly effective at deterring Japanese fighters. (Photo courtesy of 28th Bomb Wing historian’s office)