The Doolittle Raid: America’s First Strike on Japan - Lecture by Major Ralph Corsi, U.S. Army (Ret.)
Schedule
Thu, 23 Apr, 2026 at 03:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
500 Forrestal Rd, Cape May, NJ, United States, New Jersey 08204 | Rio Grande, NJ
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Join us for a powerful and immersive lecture exploring one of the most daring missions of World War II.The Doolittle Raid, launched on April 18, 1942, was the first offensive operation against the Japanese home islands during World War II. Led by Lieutenant Colonel Jimmy H. Doolittle, the mission came just months after the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, when American morale was at a low point.
In a bold and unprecedented plan, 16 Army Air Forces B-25 Mitchell bombers were launched from a Navy aircraft carrier, the USS Hornet (CV-8)—a feat never before attempted with medium bombers.
Although the raid caused limited physical damage, its psychological impact was enormous. It boosted American morale, shocked Japanese leadership, and contributed to the chain of events that led to the pivotal Battle of Midway.
The Doolittle Raid remains a powerful example of innovation, courage, and strategic impact—proving that even a small, risky operation can influence the course of a war.
🎤 ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Ralph Corsi is a retired U.S. Army Major and Vietnam helicopter pilot who went on to a remarkable 52-year aviation career as a corporate pilot, logging over 9,000 flight hours.
His experience spans aircraft from early helicopters—like those seen on the TV show MASH*—to the Falcon 50 executive jet.
After retiring from flying, Ralph turned his lifelong interest in history into a second career as a historical researcher and presenter, focusing on World War II aviation. To add realism to his Doolittle Raid presentation, Ralph even secured a ride in the front “bombardier’s bubble” of a B-25 Mitchell bomber—the same type used by Lieutenant Colonel Doolittle.
During this presentation, he will bring the history and dangers of the raid to life, placing audiences “in the cockpit” for an engaging and informative experience.
Don’t miss this chance to experience one of WWII’s most daring missions through the eyes of an experienced aviator and historian.
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Where is it happening?
500 Forrestal Rd, Cape May, NJ, United States, New Jersey 08204, Naval Air Museum, 500 Forrestal Rd, Rio Grande, NJ 08242, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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