Free Republic

In their day, they were America's kamikaze pilots, volunteering for a suicide mission that would later be immortalized by Hollywood. Now, after more than four decades, the last of the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders are returning to Tucson, the city that showered them with gifts that are still used to commemorate their feat. Only 17 of these World War II heroes - one of them a Tucsonan - remain. Most will arrive here this week for the group's reunion on the raid's 62nd anniversary, the first time they have gathered here since 1959. The fanfare will include a flyover of four...

Lord, Keep our Troops forever in Your care Give them victory over the enemy... Grant them a safe and swift return... Bless those who mourn the lost. . FReepers from the Foxhole join in prayer for all those serving their country at this time. ...................................................................................... ........................................... U.S. Military History, Current Events and Veterans Issues Where Duty, Honor and Countryare acknowledged, affirmed and commemorated. Our Mission: The FReeper Foxhole is dedicated to Veterans of our Nation's military forces and to others who are affected in their relationships with Veterans. Welcome to "Warrior Wednesday" Where the Freeper Foxhole introduces a different...

Dear Lord, There's a young man far from home, called to serve his nation in time of war; sent to defend our freedom on some distant foreign shore. We pray You keep him safe, we pray You keep him strong, we pray You send him safely home ... for he's been away so long. There's a young woman far from home, serving her nation with pride. Her step is strong, her step is sure, there is courage in every stride. We pray You keep her safe, we pray You keep her strong, we pray You send her safely home...

World War II heroes kick off five-day celebrationA LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT President Bush sent the Raiders a letter that was read at Wednesday night's reception: "Your actions during World War II and your contributions to our Nation will never be forgotten. "As our Nation confronts the challenges of a new era, I salute the example set by the Doolittle Raiders. Their bravery and devotion to duty are an inspiration to all Americans." 'TODAY SHOW' NBC's "Today Show," which airs from 7 to 10 a.m., plans to feature the Raiders' story this morning. The 60th anniversary reunion of Doolittle's Tokyo...

<p>Lt. Horace Crouch, "Sally" to buddies since his early teen-age years in Columbia, hunkered down in the bombardier's position in the Plexiglas nose of a B-25 bomber and watched anxiously for the USS Hornet's deckmaster to signal pilot Richard Joyce.</p>