Darwin Commemorates Bombing Anniversary
Hundreds of people gathered on the Darwin Esplanade to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin, the largest foreign attack on Australian soil. The event took place on February 19, 1942, during World War II, when over 200 Japanese aircraft bombed Darwin, resulting in up to 250 fatalities and 400 injuries. This marked the first instance of war reaching mainland Australia and initiated approximately 90 Japanese raids across northern Australia.
The Bombing of Darwin, on February 19, 1942, remains the largest foreign attack on Australian soil, marking the first time war reached the mainland.
Commemoration Details
- The ceremony commenced with a re-enactment of the bombings, involving Australian servicemen and women.
- Federal Member for Solomon Luke Gosling, representing the Defence Minister, stated that the attack challenged the perception of Australia being safe from war.
- NT Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro described the anniversary as a time for reflection, remembrance, and resolve.
Veteran's Testimony
Terrance Byrne, aged 101, a veteran of the 54th Anti-Aircraft Searchlight Unit, attended the commemoration. He recounted his experience of "feeding the gun" against incoming aircraft. Mr. Byrne addressed the historical narrative, asserting that there "were no cowards" among those who served in Darwin, countering contemporary press descriptions. He expressed his desire to attend the Darwin ceremony personally this year, having previously commemorated in Sydney.
Terrance Byrne, a 101-year-old veteran, countered historical narratives, asserting that 'there were no cowards' among those who served in Darwin.
USS Peary Remembrance
A separate service at the USS Peary monument honored the 88 crew members who died and 54 survivors from the US Navy destroyer during the bombings. The sinking of the USS Peary represents the greatest loss of North American life in Australian waters. US Senator Tim Kaine spoke at this ceremony, describing the attack as highly destructive and noting that the sacrifice of the USS Peary crew contributed to the formation of the ANZUS alliance and the AUKUS security pact.
US Senator Tim Kaine noted that the sacrifice of the USS Peary crew contributed to the formation of the ANZUS alliance and the AUKUS security pact.
US Senator's Remarks on Darwin Port and Defense
Following the commemorations, Senator Kaine commented on the Port of Darwin, leased to a Chinese company in 2015.
- He expressed support for the Australian government's commitment to regain control of the port, calling it "good news for Australia and it's good news for us."
- Senator Kaine was scheduled to receive further information regarding the timing of a potential sale.
- He emphasized the importance of the annual rotation of 2,500 US Marines through Darwin for regional challenges.
- Regarding issues with a US military fuel tank facility on Darwin Harbour, Senator Kaine stated that "things go sideways" in human endeavors and encouraged Australia to maintain high standards for such projects.
Senator Kaine expressed support for Australia regaining control of the Port of Darwin, calling it "good news for Australia and it's good news for us."