Killeen's Tradition Continues: Bob Gray Day Commemorated

The City of Killeen has announced it will recognize and celebrate Bob Gray Day on Thursday, April 17, with a commemorative ceremony at Killeen Regional Airport (GRK) beginning at 10 a.m. Although Bob Gray Day is traditionally held on April 18—marking the date of the historic Doolittle Raid during World War II—this year’s ceremony has been moved to the 17th due to Good Friday, when city offices will be closed.

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Remembering a Raider: Killeen's Annual Bob Gray Day Approaches

City of Killeen / Canva

The ceremony will include a special proclamation by Mayor Debbie Nash-King, honoring the legacy of 1st Lt. Robert "Bob" Gray, a Killeen native and World War II hero. Family members of Gray will be in attendance, along with distinguished guests including representatives from Fort Cavazos, Garrison Commander Lackcia Stokes, and others. Bob Gray was handpicked by Lt. Col. Jimmy Doolittle to take part in the legendary Doolittle Raid on Tokyo on April 18, 1942, just months after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

One of 80 brave airmen to participate, Gray successfully completed the mission that was crucial in boosting American morale early in the war. Tragically, he died six months later during the China-Burma campaign. A graduate of the Army Air Corps flight training in 1941, Gray earned his wings and quickly rose to the rank of B-25 pilot. His courageous service and sacrifice have long been honored by the Killeen community, with numerous memorials bearing his name—including Gray Street in downtown Killeen, a bronze statue and historic display at Killeen Regional Airport, and Robert Gray Army Airfield on Fort Cavazos.

Local Hero Honored: What to Expect at Killeen's Bob Gray Day

City Of Killeen

A previous city proclamation once declared that flags would fly from every pole and socket in the city on Bob Gray Day, permanently honoring this “Braveheart that weaved his way into the very vitals of enemy territory to destroy military objectives calculated to bring harm and destruction to our country.” The City of Killeen is proud to continue this meaningful tradition, celebrating the life and legacy of a true American and local hero.

Killeen, Texas 10 Most Missed Restaurants That We Wish Never Left

I asked the good people of Killeen, Texas to go down memory lane and tell me some of their favorite restaurants growing up that are no longer here. They are truly missed, but the memories live on. Did your favorite make the list? If not, let us know! Tap our free app and send us a message with the Chat feature.