Jimmy Doolittle & Gee Bee R1

Born 14 December 1896 at Alameda, California. Enlisted as a flying cadet in October 1917 and became excellent pilot, later undertaking many pioneering flights. Won the Schneider Trophy contest of 1925. Resigned his regular army commission in 1930, but continued in aviation and achieved a number of racing records. Returned to active duty in 1940 and when the US entered the war organized and led the special strike force of B-25s that bombed Tokyo after flying from carriers. Awarded the Medal of Honor for his part in this action. As a Brig Gen. he came to the UK in September 1942 to command the 12th AF, moving to North Africa in November. Returning to the UK in December 1943 he presided over the 8th AF build up to full strength and was instrumental in the fruitful decision to let the fighter forces go from a defensive to offensive role against the Luftwaffe. Doolittle left England in May 1945 for the Pacific war theater where, on 19 July 1945, he again commanded the 8th AF until after the cessation of hostilities with Japan. He left the USA soon after the war, although for several years he headed USA’s Scientific Advisory Board. ‘Jimmy’ Doolittle was short and lithe, intelligent, energetic, dynamic and very personable. He was possessed of a ready smile and a great sense of humor, but if the need arose he could be severe. An excellent speaker and raconteur. Renowned as a talented aeronautical engineer with outstanding flying skills.