On the morning of 19 February 1942, Japanese forces launched the first of 2 devastating air raids on Darwin that day, bringing the Second World War to Australian soil.
The first air raid focused on the town centre and the harbour. The surprise attack inflicted considerable damage on warships and merchant ships, the town and military facilities.
An hour later, the second raid began, attacking the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) base.
More than 250 people were killed including Australian service personnel, merchant seamen and civilians, and many American and other Allied service members and merchant seamen.
Amongst the moments of shock and panic, great courage was shown by service personnel, merchant seamen, and civilians.
Signalman Frederick Wombey of the 14th Heavy Anti-Aircraft Battery was stationed near Darwin’s oil tanks when the bombs began to fall. Positioned closest to the oil tanks, he ordered his men to take cover while he stood his ground and waited for an enemy aircraft to offer him a target.
When Japanese dive bombers approached, Wombey opened fire. His actions diverted the attack and prevented further damage to the oil tanks. For his courage, Wombey was awarded the Military Medal. He was one of the first Australians to receive a military decoration for bravery in battle on Australian soil.
From then until 12 November 1943, northern parts of Australia endured a total of 97 air attacks on towns and military bases.
On this national day of commemoration, we remember those who lost their lives in the attacks on Darwin in 1942, those who died in the further attacks across northern Australia, and all who served in the defence of our nation during the Second World War.
Lest we forget.
To learn more about the Bombing of Darwin, visit our Anzac Portal.