Territorians will gather this Sunday to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin.
In 1942 on 19 February, mainland Australia came under attack for the first time when Japanese forces mounted two air raids on Darwin.
The attacks involved 54 land-based bombers and approximately 188 attack aircraft.
The raids killed at least 243 people and between 300 and 400 people were injured.
The USS Peary was anchored in Darwin Harbour and was sunk by enemy air attack in Darwin Harbour.
92 servicemen died aboard the ship, the greatest loss of life on any of the ships sunk in the attack.
The anniversary is a day to reflect on our past and pay tribute to those servicemen and women, and civilians who lost their lives while courageously defending our country.
The USS Peary Memorial Service will be held at the USS Peary Memorial at Bicentennial Park from 8.15am - 9.00am.
The annual Bombing of Darwin commemorative service will follow and be held at the Darwin Cenotaph at 9.30am.
