The bombing of Darwin
When and where did the event occur?
The bombing of Darwin also known as the battle of Darwin occurred on 19 February 1942. Darwin at the time had the largest population in the North of Australia. Darwin was considered a vital asset in the protection of Australia. Darwin had a developed port and Airport, coastal barricades and a large garrison to protect against the aggressive Japanese Army. The outbreak of war in the Pacific resulted in the rapid enlargement of the military presence in Darwin and it was used as a base from which to deploy forces for the defence of the Dutch East Indies. In January and February these forces were overwhelmed by Japanese landings, usually preceded by heavy air attacks. On February 19th, Darwin was bombed. Japanese fighters and bombers air raided the port twice during the day. 252 Australian's died in the initial attack.
Why/ how was Australia involved?
Australia was being invaded by Japan. Darwin was attacked by a collective 260 fighters and bombers. Australian soldiers were dispatched to protect Darwin from further raids. Australian forces were scattered in the attack.
Significance to Australia. (5 dot points)
- More Australians died than any other campaign in the Second World War.
- More than 600 Australians were killed and some 1680 wounded.
- The defense of the Trail protected Port Moresby.
- The protection of Port Moresby defended Australia's mainland.
- Many soldiers retreated during the battle and this did not bide well in accordance to the "Digger Spirit".
The battle of Kakoda
When and where did the event occur?
The Kakoda campaign occurred between 22nd July and 13th November 1942 in the Australian captured territory of Papua. The Kakoda trail was a 40k track which linked Ower's corner outside of Port Moresby, and the village of Wairopi, on the west bank of the Kumusi River.The Trail was connected to the settlements of Buna, Gona and Sanananda on the north coast.
Why/ how was Australia involved?
Kakoda is considered one of the most significant campaigns in WW2, more Australians died and the Japanese came closer than any other campaign. The Australian's role was to deter or repel the Japanese invasion at Gona which is the north coast of Papua. The Australians fought hard in terrible conditions for the next four months. The aim of the Japanese army was to capture port Moresby which was at the time Australia's main base in New Guinea. The best way to the base was through a densely overgrown jungle track known as the Kakoda trail. During the next four months, until 16 November 1942, Australian soldiers fought the Japanese, first to keep them from reaching Port Moresby and then to push them back over the Owen Stanleys to their north coast strongholds at Buna, Gona and Sanananda.
Significance to Australia. (5 dot points)
- More Australians died than any other campaign in the Second World War.
- More than 600 Australians were killed and some 1680 wounded.
- The defense of the Trail protected Port Moresby.
- The protection of Port Moresby defended Australia's mainland.
- The Kakoda track now holds symbolism among Australians, much like Gallipoli, when you think of WW1 you think of the Landing and Lone Pine, when you think of WW2 you think of Kakoda.
The battle of Tobruk.
When and where did the event occur?
Tobruk is located in north Libya on the coastline.
The siege of Tobruk began on April 11th 1941 when the Axis attacked the town of Tobruk to gain an important and strategical strong point which would be of use the Axis. The siege of Tobruk lasted 241 days ending in December 10th.
The siege was fought out in desert conditions, with flat lands and close to no plantation.
Why/ how was Australia involved?
Australia’s role was to ensure the protection and security if Tobruk. The Australians were given orders to stand their ground and never retreat. The Australians withstood constant assaults and bombardments from the overpowering Axis force. The iconic name "Rats of Tobruk" was given to the Australians because they were like rats caught in a trap. Showing the Aussie spirit the Australians adapted this name and made it their own. The Australians as well as a few other nations fought the Axis until victory. The Australian army defended Tobruk heroically and they shall always be remembered as "The Rats of Tobruk"
Significance to Australia. (5 dot points)
- The Defense of Tobruk affected the African war
- The Australians earned a great reputation as a fighting nation
- The defense of Tobruk showed that the German "Blitzkrieg" could be stopped
- Many Australians died fighting for the greater good
- Medals were awarded to Australian soldiers, one of these medals were the Victoria Cross awarded to Corporal John Edmonston
