They dispersed when reaching the coast and bombed different targets in surrounding communities, such as Yokohama. The Doolittle Raid was a morale boost to soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines, as well as to the public back home. In China, the IJA conducted reprisals against the Chinese civilians, including killing 250,000 of them for the raid. Doolittle received the Medal of Honor and was promoted to Major General. He would be given command of the 8th Air Force bombing Germany in Europe.

About 10-ish years ago, I met Doolittle’s co-pilot. I remember people in the military at that time, going and coming from Afghanistan and Iraq, were in awe of this man, then in his 90s (IIRC).

I have learned that every generation has absolutely heroic and great people in it. There were definitely great men and women in the 1940s. My grandpa actually was shot down over New Guinea, but he escaped the cannibals (hence I am here). My great uncle bombed Ploesti. I have had ancestors fight in every war this nation has been involved in — some on both sides against each other.

The greats are just normal people who rise up to the occasion when their time comes, or their country calls.

I am so grateful for the men and women who have served, do serve, and will yet serve this nation. We may be divided in our political, social, or economic views, but let us always be one when it comes to rising up to defend and protect the principles and people we love.