Ruin Ridge

The 9th Division's Darkest Hour

Australian troops under mortar fire on Ruin Ridge

During the 1st Battle of El Alamein the 9th Australian Division was tasked with the capture of Ruin Ridge. Despite heavy fighting during the opening stages they achieved some of their objectives, but their successes obliged General Rommel to divert large numbers of troops to contain the Australian advance. The fighting then became desperate, leading to heavy casualties and the near decimation of one battalion.

Capture of Tel el Eisa

The capture of Tel el Eisa on 16th July 1942 provided a firm base of operations for the attacks at Ruin Ridge.

Makh Khad Ridge

On 17th July, the 24th Australian Infantry Brigade pushed on from Makh Khad Ridge towards Miteiriya Ridge

Dispositions 18th July

After falling back from Miteiriya Ridge, the 24th Brigade gun in around the telegraph line. Note the position of Trig Point 22 which remained in Axis hands.

26th Brigade Attack 22nd - 23rd July

The Push Towards Ruin Ridge

The 24th Brigade push forward with the 2/28th Battalion leading. The 2/28th would occupy Ruin Ridge, but the failure of Allied armour to come to their aid resulted in the surrender and capture of the Battalion.

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