The Sinking of HMAS Perth: Remembering the Battle of Sunda Strait
On the night of February 28–March 1, 1942, the waters of the Sunda Strait bore witness to one of the most tragic and heroic battles of World War II. The Australian light cruiser HMAS Perth, alongside the American heavy cruiser USS Houston and the Dutch destroyer HNLMS Evertsen, faced an overwhelming Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) force in a desperate bid to disrupt Japan’s invasion of Java. Despite their valiant efforts, all three Allied ships were lost.
As Japanese forces prepared to invade Java, the main American-British-Dutch-Australian Command (ABDA) fleet, led by Dutch Admiral Karel Doorman, engaged the enemy in the Battle of the Java Sea on February 27. The Allied fleet suffered heavy losses, and only HMAS Perth, under Captain Hector Waller, and USS Houston, commanded by Captain Albert Rooks, managed to retreat to Tanjung Priok, the port of Batavia.
Ordered to escape southward through the Sunda Strait, Perth and Houston set sail on the evening of February 28, unaware that they were heading directly into a Japanese invasion fleet of over 50 transport ships and a formidable escort of cruisers and destroyers. As they approached Bantam Bay around 23:15, they were detected by the Japanese destroyer Fubuki. Perth, believing the ship to be an Allied vessel, signalled for identification, only to be met with torpedoes. Waller immediately gave the order to open fire.
Surrounded by enemy warships, the two Allied cruisers fought desperately, causing significant damage. Perth and Houston targeted Japanese transports, sinking several in the confusion of battle. However, the numerical and firepower disadvantage soon proved insurmountable. After sustaining multiple torpedo and shell hits, Perth was abandoned and sank just after midnight. Houston continued the fight until she too succumbed shortly after. The Dutch destroyer Evertsen, arriving later, also fell victim to enemy fire and was eventually grounded by her crew before being destroyed.
The human toll was devastating. HMAS Perth lost 375 men, including Captain Waller, while USS Houston suffered 696 casualties, including Captain Rooks, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. The survivors, 307 from Perth and 368 from Houston, were taken as prisoners of war by the Japanese. They endured years of brutal captivity, with many never returning home.
The Battle of Sunda Strait stands as a testament to the courage and determination of those who fought against impossible odds. Each year, Australians honour the memory of HMAS Perth and her crew, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten. Their bravery continues to inspire future generations, reminding us of the cost of freedom and the enduring spirit of those who serve.
We will remember them.
