Why are they called the Rats of Tobruk?
AUSTRALIAN FORCES IN NORTH AFRICA Nevertheless, morale remained high – the Australians adopting the ironic nickname ‘The Rats of Tobruk’, in response to reports that Nazi radio propagandist ‘Lord Haw Haw’ had described them as being caught ‘like rats in a trap’ in one of his broadcasts.
What was it like to serve as a Rat of Tobruk?
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. In so doing, they achieved lasting fame as the “Rats of Tobruk”.
When were the Australians withdrawn from Tobruk?
1941
In the summer of 1941, Lieutenant-General Thomas Blamey, commander of the Second Australian Imperial Force, with the support of the Prime Minister of Australia, requested the withdrawal of 9th Australian Division from Tobruk in order to meet the strong desire of the Australians that all their forces in the Middle East …
Who won battle of Tobruk?
Allied victory
A garrison, consisting mostly of the 9th Australian Division (Lieutenant-General Leslie Morshead) remained at Tobruk, to deny the port to the Axis, while the WDF reorganised and prepared a counter-offensive….Siege of Tobruk.
| Date | 10 April – 27 November 1941 (7 months, 2 weeks, 3 days) |
|---|---|
| Result | Allied victory |
Where are Rats of Tobruk from?
The Rats of Tobruk were soldiers of the Australian-led Allied garrison that held the Libyan port of Tobruk against the Afrika Corps, during the Siege of Tobruk in World War II. The siege started on 11 April 1941 and was relieved on 10 December.
When did Tobruk fall to Rommel?
June 21, 1942
On June 21, 1942, General Erwin Rommel turns his assault on the British-Allied garrison at Tobruk, Libya, into victory, as his panzer division occupies the North African port. Britain had established control of Tobruk after routing the Italians in 1940.
Why are they called the rats of Tobruk?
The defenders of Tobruk did not surrender, they did not retreat. 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. In so doing, they achieved lasting fame as the “Rats of Tobruk”.
What was the Battle of Tobruk?
By 10 April 1941, the German and Italian forces under the command of Lieutenant General Erwin Rommel had surrounded the Tobruk garrison which was being defended by British Commonwealth forces including more than 14,000 Australians, under the command of Major General Leslie Morshead.
Is Tobruk based on a true story?
This television series loosely based on the actual World War II exploits of the allied Australian, New Zealander, and British defenders of Tobruk, Libya. The Siege of Tobruk by German forces in 1941, commanded by Field Marshall Erwin Rommel, was lifted only after months of desperate fighting.
What role did the Royal Navy play in the Tobruk campaign?
The Royal Navy played a crucial part in the defence of Tobruk resupplying the embattled troop and evacuating the wounded. Also giving important gun support to the port. Australian forces held the city for eight long months finally being relieved by operation Crusader in December when they advanced on Tobruk.