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Darren Chester honours all who served, remembering lives lost, wounded, and the enduring impact on Darwin’s communityAustralia marks Bombing of Darwin Day on February 19, honouring more than 240 killed in 1942 and recognising wartime sacrifice, resilience, and the ongoing need to properly resource Defence personnel. By news@gippsland - 19th February 2026 - Back to News The largest foreign attacks on Australian soil are commemorated each year on February 19 with 'Bombing of Darwin Day' recognised as a national day to honour the service personnel and civilians who died. On this day in 1942, more than 240 Allied service personnel and civilians were killed when Japanese aircraft launched a devastating air raid on Australia. Aircraft from the Imperial Japanese Navy carried out coordinated attacks against ships, airfields, fuel depots, and port facilities across the city. 
Marking 78 years since Darwin’s bombing and U.S.S. Peary sinking, Darren Chester honoured veterans and remembered Australia’s first direct wartime attacks National security reminderShadow Minister for Defence James Paterson said, "This was the day that World War II hit Australian soil and our country witnessed the devastation of the war first hand. More bombs were dropped on Darwin than were dropped during the attack on Pearl Harbor, underscoring the scale and intensity of the strikes and its lasting place in our national history." "It stands as a timely reminder that we can never take our national security for granted and Australian Defence Force personnel must be properly resourced to defend our freedoms," said Mr Paterson. Darwin attack rememberedShadow Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said the attacks shocked the nation, exposed Australia's northern vulnerability, and drove major changes in defence planning and preparedness. "In the face of devastation, local communities, service personnel and volunteers showed extraordinary courage and resilience through rescue, recovery and rebuilding efforts." "We honour those who lost their lives, those who were wounded, and all who served in the defence of Australia during World War II. We also recognise the lasting impact the attacks had on veterans, families and the Darwin community. Their sacrifice and service must never be forgotten," Mr Chester said. Invest in defenceShadow Minister for Defence Personnel Phillip Thompson said the anniversary also highlights the enduring importance of investing in the people who serve. "Our Defence personnel remain the decisive capability of the Australian Defence Force, highly trained and professional men and women prepared to serve wherever the nation calls." "Commemorations like the Bombing of Darwin remind us that preparedness is not abstract, it depends on the training, support, leadership and resources we provide to those in uniform. Honouring those who served in 1942 also means meeting our responsibility to those who serve today," Mr Thompson said. Pictures from Darren Chester Facebook page.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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