Dauntless dive bombers, like the one shown, were instrumental in the U.S. naval victory over Japan in the Battle of Midway during World War II. This photo was taken aboard the U.S. Midway Museum in San Diego. Photo by Ted Kraver.
Gary Vacin
The Dauntless dive bomber and the Battle of Midway will be the topic of a presentation at the Sun Lakes Aero Club (SLAC) gathering Monday, February 16 at the Sun Lakes Country Club Mirror Room.
The session starts with coffee and camaraderie at 6:30 p.m. followed by the presentation at 7:00 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
The featured speaker will be World War II historian Ted Kraver, a participant in the Midway Round Table; midway42.org. The group is focused exclusively on the incredible victory that became the renowned turning point of the Pacific WWII war.
The battle, fought over and near the tiny U.S. mid-Pacific base at Midway atoll, represents the strategic high war mark of Japan’s Pacific Ocean War. Prior to this action, Japan possessed general naval superiority over the U.S. and could usually choose where and when to attack.
Dauntless dive bombers were instrumental in sinking four Japanese carriers during the battle. After Midway, the two opposing fleets were essentially equals and the U.S. soon took the initiative.
SLAC is open to Sun Lakes and other local pilots and anyone interested in any aspect of aviation. The club takes several fly-ins and field trips each year. More information on the club is available from Bob Walch at 895-8869 or Gary Vacin at 298-7017 or visit the club’s website at www.sunlakesaeroclub.org.