Chief Minister of the Northern Territory
Media Release
US Marines Condolence Book at Parliament House
2 September 2023
Following the tragic aircraft crash involving United States Marines on Melville Island, Territorians are invited to sign an official Condolence Book, which will be presented to the United States Government and the people of the United States from the people of the Northern Territory.
From Monday September 4 to Wednesday September 13, members of the public can visit the Main Hall in Parliament House to sign the book.
President Obama and Prime Minister Gillard announced the Marine Rotational Force-Darwin (MRF-D) in 2011 to significantly enhance defence cooperation between Australia and the United States. In March 2023, approximately 2,500 Marines arrived in the Northern Territory as part of the 12th rotation of MRF-D to conduct combined training exercises with their Australian Defence Force counterparts, as well as with regional partner nations to deter coercion and maintain a secure and stable Indo-Pacific.
The relationship between the United States and the Northern Territory is historic, special and unbreakable. The Territory has warmly embraced the presence of MRF-D over the past 11 years, and the loss of life and injury in this incident is keenly felt by both Australian and American communities. The United States Government and its people are deeply appreciative of the care that has been shown to MRF-D during this difficult time.
Northern Territory Government
