Great Battle of Darwin Aussie Trench Art Souvenirs Made From Japanese Aircraft Skin

ARTIFACT: Great Battle of Darwin Aussie Trench Art souvenirs made from downed Japanese aircraft skin from the Battle. The Royal Forces and the US military were stationed on the island due to its location in the Pacific Theater, though not very well defended. On the morning of the attack, February 19, 1942 nearly 250 Japanese aircraft swarmed above the city of Darwin. Japanese forces dropped nearly 700 bombs from 205 bombers over the course of two raids, which effectively decimated the area below. The Allied forces incurred heavy damage to the base and military equipment and reported nearly 250 casualties. Each souvenir is made in the shape of Australia, one has more green paint remaining and carved into it reads: "JAP RAID 1942" on one side and "LOVE DOUGLAS" on the other. The Bombing of Darwin/Battle of Darwin was, and remains the largest and only foreign attack in Australia's history. These came along with an RAAF Sweetheart wing.

VINTAGE: Circa WWII

SIZE: Approximately 2" x 1-3/4" each

MATERIALS / CONSTRUCTION: Aircraft skin, paint

ATTACHMENT: None.

MARKINGS: "JAP RAID 1942", "LOVE DOUGLAS"

ITEM NOTES: This is from a Trench Art collection which we will be listing more of over the next few months. VCEX15 LAGEX11/15 SAGEX3/16

CONDITION: 8- (Very Fine - Excellent): The souvenirs shows minor to moderate wear, some original paint remains intact.