A WORLD WAR II MITCHELL B-25 bomber is one of the featured aircraft Saturday at the 12th annual Corsicana Airsho sponsored by the Coyote Wing of Commemorative Air Force. The 12th annual Corsicana Airsho sponsored by the Commemorative Air Force Coyote Squadron features two historically significant aircraft, the B-25 bomber and SB2C Helldiver.

Both airplanes were used extensively throughout World War II.

The air show, which includes more than 20 military aircraft, opens at 8:30 a.m. at Corsicana Municipal Airport and concludes in the afternoon.

Admission is $5 a person or $10 per carload. Veterans and their families are admitted free.

North American Aviation’s Mitchell B-25 bomber was developed in the 1930s and the first production models went to the 17th Bomb Group in February 1941.

The airplane’s early claim to fame came in April 1942 when Lt. Col. Jimmy Doolittle led a group of 16 B-25s from the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise to bomb Tokyo and three other Japanese cities.

The B-25 was used in all WWII theaters by the United States and several of its allies. It underwent several modifications, most of which increased its weaponry.

“Devil Dog” is a PBJ, the Marine Corps version of the B-25. It is maintained and flown by the CAF Devil Dog Squadron based in Georgetown.

Only one operational Curtiss SB2C Helldiver remains in flying condition, maintained and flown by the CAF Cactus Squadron of Graham.

The Helldiver was first deployed in the November 1943 attack on the Japanese base on Rabaul, and in subsequent weeks was used against Japanese bases on Tarawa, Nauru, New Ireland, Truk and the Marshall Islands.

In October 1944, Helldivers were used extensively against the Japanese fleet in the Battle of Leyte Gulf and were instrumental in sinking one of the largest Japanese battleships, the Masashi.

By the end of the war, Helldivers were responsible for destroying more Japanese targets and shipping tonnage than any other airplane.

Those planning to attend the show are urged to bring lawn chairs.