Virtual Visit #71 - Australians in Tobruk
Part of a series of Virtual Visit posts relating to the Australian Army Museum of Western Australia entitled “Australians in Tobruk".
Tobruk is a Mediterranean port with an excellent deep-water harbour. During World War 2, as a supply hub, it was important to both Allied and Axis forces. In January 1941, it was captured from the Italians by General Wavell's forces which included the Australian 6 Division. When Rommel drove across Cyrenaica towards Suez in April 1941, it was essential that Tobruk be held. The main infantry component of the defending force was the Australian 9th Division and 18 Brigade from 7th Division. Tobruk was surrounded and besieged from 11 April to 10 December 1941, when the Axis forces were driven back.
Many of the Australian defenders had been relieved during August and September 1941 but 2/13 Battalion remained throughout the siege.
Details
Details
The Australian Army Museum of Western Australia was closed to volunteers and the public for extended periods during the COVID-19 pandemic beginning in March 2020. One outcome was the creation of an expanded on-line presence through a weekly Virtual Visit post. The initial response encouraged the Museum over the following three tears, to continue the series. Virtual Visits normally focused on an object or theme from the collection. The general format was to link the story of the object and its significance. with web links and related materials to facilitate a continuing journey of self-discovery.
Australian Army Museum of Western Australia
Australian Army Museum of Western Australia
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