On 3 March 1942, Japanese Zero fighter planes launched a devastating air raid on Broome, Western Australia. Charles D’Antoine, a young Indigenous man, was cleaning flying boats in Roebuck Bay when the bombs fell. Amid the chaos Charles, also known as Uncle Charlie to his loved ones, saved the lives of three Dutch citizens. For his bravery, he was awarded a Silver Medal by the Dutch government. But why was this act of heroism never officially recognised by Australia?
Over three episodes, SBS Dutch journalist Paulien Roessink speaks with historians, community members, survivors, and descendants to explore the impact of the attack—and why Uncle Charlie's heroism was not acknowledged.
SBS Dutch and NITV Radio bring you a series that asks what it means to be acknowledged, and why some acts of courage are celebrated while others are forgotten.
Follow this podcast on the SBS Audio app or wherever you get your podcasts.
Credits:
Hosted and produced by: Paulien Roessink
NITV Radio team: Kerri-Lee Barry and Ngaire Pakai
Scriptwriter: Bernadette Phương Nam Nguyễn
SBS Audio team: Joel Supple and Max Gosford
Mixed by: Mandy Coolen
Photo Uncle Charlie: Broome Historical Society & Museum
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