The DAV Airshow Outreach Program was developed to increase public awareness of disabled
veterans and to serve veterans in communities across the nation. Using two B-25
medium bombers, the program reminds the public of the sacrifices veterans have made
and continue to make to keep our nation free.
The North American B25 was among the famous twin engine medium bombers used during
World War II. It was the most widely produced American twin engine combat aircraft.
No doubt, part of its heroic stature derives from its namesake, the outspoken Gen.
Billy Mitchell who proved once and for all that bombers could destroy targets, and
that wars would nevermore be decided only on land or sea. The B-25 achieved worldwide
fame on April 18, 1942. Sixteen B-25's, under the command of Lt. Col. James Doolittle,
were launched from the aircraft carrier Hornet in a daring raid on five Japanese
cities including Tokyo, Osaka, Yokohama, Nagoya, and Kobe.
The original "Panchito", named after the feisty rooster from Disney's animated musical
The Three Caballeros, was a bomber with the 396th Bomb Squadron, 41st Bomb Group,
7th Air Force, stationed in the Central Pacific. After several attacks on various
Japanese strongholds in Southern Japan as well as Japanese help Eastern China, she
was scheduled for another bombing run to Japan on the day the Japanese surrendered.
B-25J MITCHELL BOMBER
The North American B-25J was among the most famous twin engine medium bombers used
during World War II. "Special Delivery" honors the achievements of Lt. Col. James
Doolittle and his daring raiders who helped turn the tide of the war in the Pacific.
