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Natural law. Sons are put on this earth to trouble their fathers. -
Some history being played out there -
Anyone else watching?G'Day MateComment
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So they opened, and gave their final toast to their comrades with, a bottle of 1896 Cognac originally given to Gen. Doolittle.
The original plan was for the last two survivors to share it, but earlier this year the remaining four decided to share it now.
“Gentlemen, I propose a toast. To those we lost on the mission and those who have passed away since. Thank you very much and may they rest in peace.”
The final toast was made with a unique bottle of 1896 cognac originally presented to Doolittle by a representative of the Hennessey company in 1956 and later passed onto the Raiders. The silver goblets were presented to the Raiders by the city of Tucson, Arizona, in 1959. Each goblet has a Raider’s name engraved on it twice, so it can be read right side up or upside down. When a Raider dies his goblet is turned over in the special carrying case custom made by Cole.
The final toast Saturday night was held in the presence of family members, Air Force and museum officials, and other dignitaries. As the Raider’s historian called out the 80 names the three Raiders present responded with “Here” as they were called.
The three Raiders attending the ceremony were Richard E. Cole, 98, Edward J. Saylor, 93, and David J. Thatcher, 92. The fourth surviving Raider, Robert L. Hite, 93, was unable to attend due to health concerns, but made a private toast at home.Comment
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