The Rats of Tobruk facts for kids

The Rats of Tobruk was a special name given to soldiers during World War II. These brave soldiers defended the port of Tobruk in Libya. They held it against the German and Italian forces known as the Afrika Korps.

The fight for Tobruk was called the Siege of Tobruk. It started on April 10, 1941. The siege lasted for many months and finally ended in late November of the same year.

Who Were the Rats of Tobruk?

Most of the Allied soldiers in Tobruk were from Australia. The Australian 9th Division and part of the Australian 7th Division were there. Their leader was Lieutenant General Leslie Morshead. There were more than 14,000 Australian soldiers.

Other Allied troops also helped defend Tobruk. About 12,000 British soldiers were present, including tank units and artillery. Indian troops, specifically the 18th King Edward's Own Cavalry, also played a part.

Changes During the Siege

During the siege, some troops were swapped out. Between August and October, when the nights were very dark, the Australian and Indian soldiers left by sea. They were replaced by other Allied forces.

The new troops included the British 70th Infantry Division. The Polish Independent Carpathian Brigade also arrived. A group of Czechoslovak soldiers, the 11th Infantry Battalion, joined them.

Images for kids

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  This mosaic in Mackay, Australia, shows the symbol of the Rats of Tobruk.

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  Australian soldiers on patrol during the siege of Tobruk.

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  German bombs exploding during a heavy air raid on Tobruk. This photo was taken from a trench.

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  Major General Leslie James Morshead at a memorial for the Tobruk heroes in Libya, around January 1942.

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  The Rats of Tobruk Memorial in Canberra, Australia, in 2014.