The siege of Tobruk lasted 240 days during which the `gallant garrison' of Allied soldiers, primarily the Australian 9th Division, held out against constant attacks from Rommel's Afrika Korps. The battle became one of the longest sieges in British military history and a potent symbol of British resistance. However, Tobruk's importance was far beyond that of a mere symbol in the war, it was a key fortress and port that enabled the resupply of troops throughout the Western Desert theatre. Indeed, Goebbels was so infuriated by the British stand that he referred to the garrison troops as `rats' and the `Rats of Tobruk' became known for their tenacity. When the fortress finally fell to German tanks on 21 June 1942 with the loss of 25,000 men Churchill said it was `one of the heaviest blows I can recall during the war'. Through quotes and maps the text explores the unfolding action of the battle and puts the reader on the frontline. If you truly want to understand what happened and why - read Battle Story.
