DarwinLife and Home Magazine

What does the Bombing of Darwin 70 years ago mean to a current serving military person?

Back in 1942, not a lot of information was released about the Bombing of Darwin to ensure panic did not ripple through the Australian population. In addition, the ensuing school history curriculum of the southern states did not cover this act of war upon Australian soil. Resultantly, many of us ‘southerners’, myself included, grew up being totally oblivious to the brazen attack on our shores, and the bravery and resilience shown by our Territorian brothers and sisters.

The Bombing of Darwin on 19 February 1942 is something that strikes a chord with all serving Australian military personnel but especially to those who are posted into this region.

As members of the ADF, we train everyday to prepare ourselves to operate and serve anywhere in the world. With the high level of Australian military effort occurring overseas it is easy to forget that the horrors of war once touched our Nations shores.  The event is frequently referred to as Australia’s equivalent to the attack on Pearl Harbour, and it is a sobering reminder that despite our apparent geographical isolation, we can still be reached by nations with hostile intentions.

These days, just about everyone in Darwin knows about the significance of the Bombing of Darwin and certainly defence personnel are aware of the bravery shown by both Australian and American personnel in defence of Darwin during the air attack. For current serving personnel, commemorating the Bombing of Darwin gives us the chance to remember their efforts, honour the survivors and the motivation to succeed in what ever job we do.

What does it mean to be involved in the commemoration re-enactment?

I am honoured to be involved in the commemoration and have the opportunity to meet some of the survivors. Many of them will be here for the last time to gather together with mates from all those years ago. As a current serving member, I will look on with pride as the Navy patrol boat moves through Darwin Harbour, the Army personnel will recreate the anti-aircraft barrage and a RAAF AP-3C Orion will ensure everyone’s eyes are turned skyward for a spectacular flyover. We experience the same rush of excitement displaying our skills to the community as the spectators do watching the events unfold.

How do you think soldiering is different now than it was 70 years ago?

The more things change the more things stay the same. Ask any old digger, sailor or airman about their experiences during a war or conflict and they’ll always remember the people. They are more likely to share stories of shenanigans with mates than recount details of what they did and how they did it. As expected, the ADF has advanced with technology but our core values of mateship, courage and serving our nation has transcended the generations.

Today, our soldiers, sailors and airmen are frequently called upon to serve in non-warfighting roles. These tasks draw upon our professional military abilities, steadfast mindset and our overwhelming desire to serve. We have been there for humanitarian efforts such as the Tsunami Relief in 2004, regional earthquakes and, closer to home provided significant assistance to the Brisbane Flood Relief effort and in Far North Queensland after the destructive Cyclone Yasi. We were on the ground rebuilding lives and helping communities get back on their feet. Being able to make a difference is something that resonated with all of us.

Why is it so important to remember past conflicts?

Remembrance and commemoration services are our way to honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. They gave everything in order to preserve our way of life and the freedoms that make Australia the nation it is today. We benefitted from the brave efforts of Australians in previous conflicts. Now, it is our responsibility to ensure our children’s future remains as secure and peaceful as the lives we have enjoyed.

The Bombing of Darwin is an important part of our history.  We can be proud of our forbearers and who we are today, not only at home but throughout the world.