Today marks the 82nd anniversary of one of Australia’s most historic events, the Bombing of Darwin.
In 1942 on the 19th of February, mainland Australia came under attack for the first time when Japanese forces mounted two air raids on Darwin.
The anniversary is a day for Territorians to gather and reflect on the unprecedented attack and pay tribute to those servicemen and women and civilians who lost their lives while courageously defending our country.
The attacks involved 54 land-based bombers and approximately 188 attack aircraft. The raids killed at least 243 people and between 300 and 400 more were injured.
The USS Peary was also anchored in Darwin Harbour during the attack.
The USS Peary Memorial Service will be held at the USS Peary Memorial at Bicentennial Park from 8.00am – 8.45am.
The annual Bombing of Darwin commemorative service will follow and be held at the Darwin Convention Centre at 9.30am.
By commemorating this day we are also passing this story onto the next generation, and keeping the memory alive.
