This design is based on SBD-3 Dauntless flown by Richard Best during the Battle of Midway. On June 4, 1942, Best led his squadron in a daring and successful attack on the Japanese aircraft carrier Akagi on June 4th. He personally led the dive-bombing mission that delivered a direct hit on the Akagi, causing extensive damage and ultimately leading to its sinking. Later that day, Best participated in the attack on the last remaining Japanese carrier, Hiryū, possibly scoring one of the four hits that sank her. Best's gunner, James Francis Murray, believed that he "saw the flash of [Best's] bomb through the smoke as it struck amidships forward of the island." After the battle, Best was awarded the Navy Cross and the Distinguished Flying Cross. The Battle of Midway is often regarded as a turning point in World War II, and Richard Halsey Best's role in delivering a decisive blow to the enemy fleet remains a testament to his bravery and strategic acumen during the conflict.