Undefeated Air Force Football Team Dons Uniforms Honoring WWII Heroes Amid Criticism

The Air Force Academy's undefeated football team will wear alternate uniforms honoring the Doolittle Raiders of World War II.

The Air Force Academy's football team is gearing up for a highly anticipated game against Navy, bringing with them an undefeated record and a touch of controversy. In a recent post on social media, the team announced that they will be debuting their alternate uniform, which pays tribute to the Doolittle Raiders of World War II.

The uniforms have been carefully designed to honor the brave men who were part of the Doolittle Raid. The chrome helmet features the inscription "B-25" across the front, symbolizing the type of aircraft used in the mission. The back of the helmet displays either the nickname of one of the planes involved in the bombing of Japan or simply "Doolittle."

The jersey itself is adorned with letters and numbers made to resemble steel and rivets, similar to those found on the B-25 aircraft. The right chest of the jersey lists the tail numbers of the planes that participated in the mission. Additionally, the left sleeve proudly displays the squadron patch of the Doolittle Raiders, which was generously permitted for use by the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders Association.

The pants complete the ensemble with the words "Ever into Peril" emblazoned on the right leg, representing the mantra of the Doolittle Raiders. On the left leg, the same phrase is written in French: "Toujours au Danger." These words serve as a reminder of the bravery and determination exhibited by these remarkable individuals.

Led by Lt. Col. James H. 'Jimmy' Doolittle of the United States Army Air Force, the Doolittle Raiders carried out a daring mission, bombing strategic targets in Tokyo and other military locations in Japan. The raid, launched from the USS Hornet aircraft carrier, caused limited damage but had a significant impact on American morale. It also raised concerns in Japan, revealing that their homeland was not invulnerable.

While the commemorative uniform has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, there have been a few negative comments on social media. However, Troy Garnhart, a representative of the Air Force Academy's athletic department, assures that the majority of people have responded supportively to the negative posts, showing their solidarity with the academy.

The Air Force-Navy game serves as an ideal platform to highlight the significance of the Doolittle Raid. Not only was it a successful joint warfare operation, requiring extensive cooperation and trust-building between the Army Air Forces and the Navy, but it also showcased boldness, courage, and innovation – traits that remain crucial for Airmen, Guardians, and the entire joint force today.

Patrick Donley, director of the Doolittle Leadership Center at the Air & Space Forces Association, emphasizes the heroic nature of the Doolittle Raiders, describing them as both Air Force and American heroes. Their selfless sacrifice and fearless leadership serve as a remarkable example of duty and dedication.

This is not the first time the Air Force Academy's football team has honored military heroes through their uniforms. The "Air Power Legacy Series" has previously paid tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen of World War II, Operation Linebacker II in the Vietnam War, and the Flying Tigers of World War II.

As the undefeated Falcons prepare to face Navy, the stage is set for an exciting game at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Maryland. The clash between these two teams will not only showcase their athletic prowess but will also serve as a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who came before them.

Share With Others