THE HON BARNABY JOYCE MP
Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
Federal Member for New England
19 February 2025
83rd BOMBING OF DARWIN COMMEMORATION
Shadow Minister for Veteran’s Affairs, Mr Barnaby Joyce today attended the 83rd Commemoration of the Second World War Bombing of Darwin.
On 19 February 1942 Darwin itself was bombed. Japanese fighters and bombers attacked the port and shipping in the harbour twice during the day, killing 252 Allied service personnel and civilians.
The Japanese air raids on Darwin on 19 February involved, collectively, over 260 enemy aircraft. Subsequent raids in April, June, July and November 1942, and March 1943 were carried out with forces of 30 to 40 fighters and bombers.
“Today’s 83rd Bombing of Darwin Commemoration is a timely reminder that our Nation has a direct history on our own soil of the impacts of war with many losing their lives and loved ones losing their sons, husbands and fathers”, said Mr Joyce.
“I stand with those families today to honour their service as the Shadow Minister for Veteran’s Affairs and recognise the sacrifice of those that have been left behind”
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