Bombing of Darwin Commemoration

On the 19th of February at 9.58am, 68 years ago, an air raid lasting over 40 minutes on Darwin by over 260 Japanese aircraft started, and was the first of two raids.  Both raids devastated the small northern defence outpost. The raid destroyed many public buildings and destroyed the post office, hospital and other important buildings.  The second raid consisted of over 50 bombers and targeted the RAAF base, destroying aircraft and airport buildings.  Over 240 people died, with casualties in the hundreds.  It was the first time war had come to Australia.

The same date, same time, 68 years later, and the bombing was commemorated, by both the wider community and the defence force.  Servicemen, servicewomen and those of the community who were present during the bombing of Darwin came to remember friends, mates and family that were lost during the air raids while others came to listen and learn of the bombing of Darwin, with many schools present.

To remind those present of the ferocity of the raids and give some atmosphere, there was a reenactment with two fighter jets, and several anti-aircraft cannons.

Special guest Max Murphy told of how, as a 15 year old boy, he enlisted with the army and came to Darwin.  His entertaining recount of the “Moo Cow” told of how humour is present even during the darkest of times.  Other speakers included the Administrator Tom Pauling, who reflected on the devastation left in the wake of the bombing, and stressed the importance of remembering what had happened 68 years ago. Other guest speakers included the Lord Mayor Graeme Sawyer and local high school student Oliver Hasan-Foucard.

Take some time to remember what happened 68 years ago