Dick Cole Celebrates 100
Lt. Col. Richard Cole Celebrates 100
A dear friend of AVC and co-pilot to Jimmy Doolittle on the famed Doolittle Raid, Richard Cole, celebrated his 100th birthday on September 7th.
He spent the day at a reception for Doolittle Raid survivors at the Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas, Texas. Cole reflected on the historic mission vividly, recalling the fear he overcame, unsure of when or how he would land. Years later, the mission remains one of the most daring and significant moments of World War II.
Lt. Col. James Megellas, the most decorated officer of the 82nd Airborne Division, shares a toast with Lt. Col. Richard Cole, celebrating his 100th birthday.
AVC president Jim Roberts is quoted in an article from The Dallas Morning News covering the event:
Jim Roberts, president of the American Veterans Center, said the story of the Doolittle Raiders resonates with young people more than many others from World War II.
“I think it’s because of the sheer audacity of the raid,” he said. “It was seen by many at the time as a suicide mission because it was a one-way trip.”
AVC has worked closely with the Raiders over the years, and has been honored to have them attend our annual events including the Veterans Day Conference and the National Memorial Day Parade. Most recently, AVC worked with Tim Gray Media to produce a documentary about the Raiders’ legendary mission and the story of a historic toast titled Doolittle’s Raiders: A Final Toast. The film was shown at the Frontiers of Flight Museum in Dallas as part of Cole’s birthday celebration.
The film is now available for DVD purchase! Find out more information here.
