Did FDR Let Pearl Harbor Happen?
Summary: Conspiracy theories claim FDR knew the attack was coming—but historians say the truth is more complicated (and documented) than that.
Read the post
<< Back to All News
Busting Myths One Monday at a Time
(August 22, 2025) - Every Monday, the Commemorative Air Force sets the record straight with #MythbusterMonday—our series tackling some of the most persistent (and entertaining) legends from World War II. From Pearl Harbor conspiracies to jet fighters and even carrots granting superhuman night vision, we’ve had no shortage of tall tales to unravel.
But here’s the thing—while myths make for good storytelling, the truth is often just as fascinating, if not more so. By digging into records, research, and first-hand accounts, we not only get closer to the truth, but we also honor the people who lived through these moments by telling their stories accurately.
Below, you’ll find some of the myths we’ve tackled so far—complete with photos, quick takeaways, and links to the full posts.
At the CAF, we believe strongly in education and in keeping these stories alive for future generations. Myths may be fun, but the truth is what connects us to the past in the most meaningful way.
Want to join the fun?
What World War II myths have you heard that you’d like us to bust? Send your suggestions to media@cafhq.org and keep an eye out for the next #MythbusterMonday on Facebook @CommemorativeAF!
Summary: Great story, wrong timeline—the Navy selected the name before December 7, 1941.
Was the TBF “Avenger” Named to Avenge Pearl Harbor?
Summary: Curved approaches helped with visibility—but the Corsair became carrier-ready through engineering fixes, training, and time.
Did the British Teach the U.S. Navy How to Land the Corsair?
Summary: The Hellcat prototype flew before the Akutan Zero was recovered; the capture confirmed insights but didn’t drive the design.
Did the Hellcat Copy the Captured Akutan Zero?
Summary: Timing mattered—but Hitler’s bomber obsession and engine woes mattered more, stunting the Me 262’s impact.
Was Germany’s Jet “Too Late to Matter”?
Summary: Not a perfect record—but among the best in the Fifteenth Air Force, which makes their achievement even more impressive.
Did the Tuskegee Airmen Never Lose a Bomber?
Summary: From drive-shaft fears to bailout myths—the Airacobra’s real combat story (especially in Soviet service) flips the script.
P-39 Airacobra: “Tankbuster” and Other Tall Tales
Summary: A tasty myth with a high-tech secret: radar and better interception tools—not vegetables—won the night.
Did Carrots Give RAF Pilots Night Vision?
Summary: Fun story, but the phrase predates belt-fed guns; its roots trace to 19th-century usage.
“The Whole Nine Yards” — From Pilots’ Ammo Belts?
<!-- Elfsight Social Share Buttons | Untitled Social Share Buttons -->
