The Northern Territory today marks the 84th anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin, commemorating those who served and those who died during the largest foreign attack ever mounted on Australian soil.
On 19 February 1942, 242 Japanese aircraft launched two air raids on Darwin’s harbour, airfields and town. The attack brought the Second World War directly to Australian shores and left lasting scars on the Territory community.
Chief Minister and Minister for Defence NT Lia Finocchiaro said the anniversary is a time for reflection, remembrance and resolve.
“The Bombing of Darwin is a day to remember the courage and sacrifice of the service men and women and everyday Territorians who defended our beautiful city,” she said.
“It shattered the illusion that our island nation was beyond the reach of global conflict and brought the reality of war to our doorstep. Yet, for too long, the scale and significance of this attack were not fully understood across the country.”
The Bombing of Darwin remains a defining moment in Australia’s wartime history. The Chief Minister said it stands as a reminder of the resilience shown by those who lived through the attack.
“Today, we gather as a community to honour those who served, those who sacrificed, and those who continue to defend our nation,” she said.
“We remember the servicemen and women, the civilians, the harbour workers, the nurses, and the volunteers who showed extraordinary bravery in the face of chaos.”
She said the events of that day continue to carry lessons for the present.
“The lessons of that day remind us of the cost of complacency, the value of preparedness, and the strength found in unity.”
The 1942 raids also marked the beginning of a deeper relationship between the Northern Territory and the United States. Over more than 80 years, cooperation between the two has been shaped by shared defence interests and regional security ties.
“As we mark this solemn anniversary, we stand together in gratitude and respect,” Ms Finocchiaro said.
“Lest we forget.”
Commemorative services are being held across the Territory today, including the USS Peary Memorial Service from 8.00am to 8.45am at the USS Peary Memorial in Bicentennial Park, and the Annual Bombing of Darwin Commemorative Service at 9.30am at the Darwin Cenotaph.
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