The 76th Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin on the 19th February 1942

The attack on Darwin on 19 February 1942 by the Japanese was the first attack ever made by an enemy on Australian soil.
The devastating attack by 242 Japanese aircraft, sunk 8 and damaged 15 of the 45 ships in the harbour, 23 aircraft were destroyed and an estimated 900 people killed with many hundreds injured.

Although Battalions of soldiers were rushed to Darwin following the attack on Pearl Harbour, Australia’s defences were totally inadequate against such an attack.
Altogether 683 bombs over two raids were dropped on Darwin in one day and up to that time was the biggest air raid of WW2.

Strict censorship was imposed on all information regarding the air raids and all official documents were stamped “Not to be released until 1995”.

About 200,000 Australians served in Darwin in WW2 and through this ceremony we give them the recognition and respect they have earned for their efforts in the defence of their country and its people.
Veterans, their families and members of the public are welcome to attend.

Further Details – contact Bernadette Lightfoot – 03 9500 2399 or bern@ryebuck.com.au