In a heartfelt salute to the heroic legacy of the Doolittle Raiders, Air Force football is set to don a remarkable set of uniforms as part of the 2023 Air Power Legacy Series. The Falcons will proudly wear these tribute uniforms during their upcoming game against Navy on October 21, hosted in Annapolis, Maryland.
The centerpiece of these special uniform is a striking chrome helmet adorned with the iconic B-25 aircraft on the front bumper. Additionally, the back bumper is adorned with the nicknames of the planes, honoring the memory of these brave pilots. Notably, only nine of the 16 planes had nicknames, and the unnamed aircraft will bear the name "Doolittle" as a collective tribute.
The jersey itself pays homage to the B-25 aircraft, featuring letters and numbers inspired by the aircraft's steel and rivet construction. The right chest bears the tail numbers of the planes that participated in the historic mission, while the left sleeve proudly displays the squadron patch of the Doolittle Raiders. This emblem was graciously allowed for use by the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders Association.
As the Falcons take the field, the back nameplate will read "Doolittle Raiders," a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit that guided those 80 pilots and crew members who embarked on the daring Doolittle Raid on April 18, 1942. Led by Lt. Col. James H. “Jimmy” Doolittle, these brave individuals courageously bombed strategic targets in Tokyo and other parts of Japan, sending an unyielding message of American resolve.
The pants complete the ensemble with the roundel logo on the left front, adorned with the star emblem that adorned the B-25 aircraft. Further embodying the spirit of the Doolittle Raiders, the mantra "Ever into Peril" is emblazoned down the right side of the pants, with "Toujours au Danger" (Ever into Peril in French) gracing the left leg.
As we honor the legacy of the Doolittle Raiders, these uniforms stand as a fitting tribute to their heroic actions and unwavering dedication. Their legacy lives on through the Falcons as they take the field, reminding us all of the indomitable spirit that defines American courage and honor.