EAGLES OVER DARWIN: American Airmen Defending Northern Australia in 1942

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In 1942, the air defense of the northern Australian town of Darwin fell to the US. A massive Japanese air attack on 19 February left the town and its air base in ruins. An understrength squadron of USAAC P-40E Warhawks fought a gallant defense but was all but wiped out. Yet, the US sent aid -- the 49th Fighter Group was the first such US group formed after Pearl Harbor to be sent overseas. It was sent to Darwin.

From modest beginnings on makeshift airstrips, the 49th FG entered combat with its feared Japanese adversaries. Its P-40E Warhawks may have been poor interceptors, but they were rugged, reliable, and well-armed. Unable to dogfight the highly maneuverable Zeros, the American pilots resorted to dive and zoom tactics more suited to their heavier fighters.

Over several months the 49th FG pilots fought a brave and innovative campaign against a stronger enemy that did much to safeguard Australia in its darkest hour. Today, lonely and long forgotten airfields still bear the name of American pilots who made the ultimate sacrifice.