2/28th Battalion (Australia)

The 2/28th Battalion was an infantry battalion of the Australian Army, raised as part of the Second Australian Imperial Force (2nd AIF) for service during World War II. It was formed in April 1940 in Western Australia and was assigned to the 7th Brigade, which was part of the 9th Division.

The battalion saw extensive action in the Middle East and North Africa. Its first major engagement was the Siege of Tobruk in 1941, where it played a vital role in the defense of the city against Axis forces. It later participated in the First and Second Battles of El Alamein in 1942. The 2/28th sustained heavy casualties throughout the North African Campaign, particularly during the battles around Tel el Eisa during the First Battle of El Alamein where it earned a reputation for its tenacious defense.

After its service in North Africa, the 2/28th Battalion was transferred back to Australia to fight in the Pacific War against the Japanese. It participated in the New Guinea campaign, specifically the Huon Peninsula campaign in 1943-1944.

The battalion was disbanded in February 1946 after the war's conclusion. Throughout its service, the 2/28th earned a number of battle honours, reflecting its significant contribution to the Allied war effort. Its personnel came primarily from Western Australia, and the unit maintains a strong historical connection to that region.