The Australian soldiers, in particular, embraced the nickname given to them by Nazi propagandist William Joyce, known as Lord Haw Haw, calling them the "Rats of Tobruk," and used it as an ironic compliment. Their determination, bravery, and humour, combined with the aggressive tactics of their commanders, became a source of inspiration during some of the war's darkest days. They lived in dug-outs, caves, and crevasses, and faced unimaginable conditions on a daily basis.ĭespite these challenges, the defenders of Tobruk did not surrender, nor did they retreat. The men endured the searing heat of the desert days, the bitterly cold nights, and the dust storms that raged through the area. The garrison at Tobruk faced constant attack from German and Italian forces, who bombarded them with tanks, artillery, and daily bombings. By holding Tobruk, the enemy was forced to bring most of their supplies overland from the port of Tripoli, across 1500 km of desert, entailing the diversion of troops from their advance. For the Allies, the importance of holding Tobruk with its harbour, directly impacted the vital defence of Egypt and specifically the Suez Canal. They were supported by four regiments of British artillery and some Indian troops. The defenders of Tobruk were mostly Australians, numbering around 14,000 soldiers, commanded by Lieutenant General Leslie Morshead. Siege of Tobruk, April-December 1941, map, 1943, pen & ink drawing by James Emery, What followed from April until December was an eight-month siege that would become known as one of the most significant Australian battles of the war, and a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. A swift German advance had put them in a position to take Egypt, and the only thing that stood between them and this crucial target was the garrison at Tobruk. In the early months of its second full year 1941, the Allies faced a significant threat from German forces in Libya. The Second World War was a time of great conflict and loss. The Victims of the Bangka Island Massacre.Their Service, In Their Words - A Collection of Tribute Profiles with Curated Interviews. Podcast: Walking in Two Worlds: The WW1 Story of Ngarridjeri ANZACs Cryril & Rufus Rigney.Excursion: Adelaide Commemorative Precinct Walking Tour.Podcast - The Sudden Storm: The Bangka Island Massacre.Lockleys Servicemen's Memorial Centre Inc.
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