Bombing of Darwin: Remembering the day war came to Australia’s shores

THE haunting sound of the air raid siren was pock-marked by machinegun and cannon fire. But these rounds were blanks — unlike the Japanese rounds fired 78 years ago that brought war to Australia’s shores

Smoke drifts across the Esplanade as soldiers fire cannons on the Darwin Esplanade to re-enact the Bombing of Darwin. Picture: Che Chorley

THE haunting sound of the air raid siren sent about a dozen soldiers into action, as cannons and machine guns fired off the cliffs of the Darwin Esplanade.

But these rounds were blanks, unlike the Japanese rounds fired 78 years ago that brought World War II to Australian soil.

1st Brigade Bombardier Jack Papworth took part in the Bombing of Darwin re-enactment on Wednesday morning.

Soldiers from the 8/2 Regiment fire M2A2 Howitzers during the service commemorating the anniversary of Bombing of Darwin. Picture Katrina Bridgeford.

“It’s a great honour being part of the history of the re-enactment, all the lads here are extremely keen and we have some history buffs who have actually bought the first kit to be a part of it,” he said.

“For me it’s a privilege to be able to command a gun for example and play a crucial role in the re-enactment.”

It still gives the modern day troops an adrenaline rush, positioned on post as soldiers would have on February 19, 1942.

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For Sam Logan, son of USS Peary survivor Samuel Logan who jumped from the sinking wreckage into the burning Darwin Harbour, watching the re-enactment for the first time was an experience he’ll never forget.

“I’m stunned. How do you top this? I haven’t seen anything in the US like this,” he said.

“The word ‘speechless’ comes to mind … it’s really been an amazing day, this is a fabulous experience.

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The crowd takes in the Bombing of Darwin commemoration services. Picture: Che Chorley

“I honour (Australia) for honouring the veterans like you do.”

As Mr Logan’s father’s story was shared by acting Chief Minister Nicole Manison, Mr Logan stood and waved to an appreciative crowd, humbled by the tale of survival

Wreaths were laid by schoolchildren and dignitaries including Administrator Vicki O’Halloran and Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis.

Also in attendance were representatives from the Japanese Consul General and the United States and the United States Consul Chief.

Veteran Mervyn Ey, 98, who was in Nightcliff when the bombs first fell, said the commemorations kept the history alive.

“Coming back means I’m still able to do things and the anniversary is a very prominent thing,” he said.

“On that day, the anti-aircraft and the infantry battalions and artillery, they were very proud of themselves.

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“No one was scared that much that they left their posts, they can be very proud of that.

“I like coming back each year to hear what veterans have to say and it’s something in your old life that you like doing.”