Dick Cole the last Dolittle raider Dies aged 103

[Commander Wallace]

Originally Posted by vienna

When you consider the Doolittle mission was pretty much a "one-way" ride and the men knew it, their heroism is all the more impressive. They took aircraft that were not intended to be launched from carriers and did it; they flew a longer distance than intended to their target due to possibly being spotted by picket boats, pretty much making it a surety they would be flying on fumes to their refuel point, if they got there t all; they bailed out or crashed in territory held by the enemy and some of them were able to make it back to friendly forces, although some did not and paid the price. They did what couldn't be done. Now the last of them is now on his final flight home, to join his crews. What they did and who they were and who they are to the history of our country will not be forgotten...


May your wings carry you home to a final peace, Dick Cole...

<O>

That pretty much says it all about Richard's bravery and dedication. Rest in peace Mr. Cole and thanks for your service.


Great write up and article as well, blackswan. Great pictures too. Nicely done.