Battle of Merdjayoun facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Merdjayoun
Part of the Syria-Lebanon Campaign of World War II
Command post of the Australian 2/6th Field Regiment during fighting against the French in the Merdjayoun sector
Date 19–24 June 1941 Location Marjayoun, French Lebanon Result Allied victory
Belligerents
United Kingdom India  Australia	Vichy France French Lebanon
Commanders and leaders
Arthur Samuel Allen

The Battle of Merdjayoun was a fight during World War II. It happened from June 19 to 24, 1941. The battle took place near the town of Marjayoun in Lebanon.

This battle was part of the Syria-Lebanon Campaign. It was fought between Vichy French forces and Allied troops. Most of the Allied soldiers were from Australia. The Allies won this important battle.

What Happened First?

Australian soldiers moved into Marjayoun on June 11, 1941. The defenders were not well-equipped. After this, most of the Australian 25th Brigade went north. They went to attack Jezzine.

A smaller group, mainly the 2/33rd Battalion, stayed to hold Merdjayoun. But the Vichy French forces launched a strong counterattack. This forced the Australian soldiers to pull back on June 15.

Fighting to Hold the Line

During the battle that followed, Allied troops fought hard. They successfully defended a key pass. This pass led back to Palestine.

The Allies then fought to take back the town. They recaptured Marjayoun early on June 24. The Australian 7th Division, led by Major-General Arthur "Tubby" Allen, was reinforced. They got help from units of the 6th Australian Division.

Heroic Actions in Battle

The 2/3rd Battalion was part of a group sent to help. They were trying to reach some 5th Indian Infantry Brigade soldiers. These soldiers were surrounded in Mezze, near Damascus. This happened after the Battle of Damascus.

The 2/3rd Battalion bravely attacked high ground near Mezze. But they could not reach their friends in time. The surrounded Allied defenders ran out of ammunition. They had also been without food for 50 hours. They were eventually captured.

A Brave Artilleryman

The 2/5th Australian Field Regiment was also in the relief group. Lieutenant Arthur Roden Cutler showed great courage. He used his 25-pounder field gun. He also used his Boys anti-tank rifle, Bren gun, and .303 rifle. He fought against enemy tanks, soldiers, and machine gun posts.

Later, Lieutenant Cutler lost his leg during the Battle of Damour. But he was awarded the Victoria Cross for his brave actions. This award was for his efforts at both Merdjayoun and Damour. He is the only Australian artilleryman to ever receive the Victoria Cross.