• Introduction
• Under attack
• Mobilisation
• The End in sight

Citations for bravery

The 14th Heavy Anti-Aircraft Battery was one of the few Militia anti-aircraft units in Darwin at the time of the first raids. The unit was equipped with both modern 3.7-inch anti-aircraft artillery and First World War–vintage Lewis light machine-guns.

The unit’s greatest asset was the bravery of its young soldiers, men like Gunner “Darky” Hudson and Lance Bombardier Fred Wombey. Wombey and Hudson were both decorated with the Military Medal for bravery in the field for using their Lewis guns to great effect in defence of strategic installations during the raid.

Lance Bombardier Fred Wombey, MM, 14th Heavy Anti-Aircraft Battery027800

“Darky” Hudson, MMP02539.001

Citations for braveryRC02372

Under attack

• Darwin, 19 February 1942
  • Citations for bravery
  • A family tragedy
• Australia reacts
• Broome, 3 March 1942
• Sydney, June 1942
  • Midget submarines on tour
• Townsville, July 1942
• Attacks in Australian waters
• Internees and prisoners of war