Graphic Story Of Straggle For Crete

Northern Advocate, 24 May 1941, Page 5

Graphic Story Of Straggle For Crete

(Roc. 1.30 p.m.) LONDON, May 23. A large body of the A.l.F.—veterans of the Western Desert and the Greek campaigns—are now fighting in Crete. They are under the command of Major-General Freyberg, and are fighting as an Anzac force. Large numbers of Germans have been killed accidentally as a result of planes crashing or by falling into trees. Parachutes opening instantly from a low altitude swing violently like pendulums, and are most difficult to hit. It takes about ten minutes for the men to free themselves and pick up their packs, guns and ammunition. The Empire troops find that this is the best time to attack.

Navy Supreme It is authoritatively stated that German claims of losses inflicted on British ships in the Mediterranean are exaggerated. The British Navy has succeeded in defeating all attempts to land forces in Crete from the sea. A big convoy going to Crete was scattered and driven north. Italian ships were seen picking up survivors. Heavy aerial attacks in comparatively confined waters have prevented the British ships from chasing the enemy back to his lairs. The Navy is facing a tough proposition, because it must carry on a ceaseless fight in close proximity to enemy aerial bases. The Germans are using powerful formations of dive-bombers, and it is almost inevitable that there must be some losses under the circumstances. Naval anti-aircraft guns have taken toll of enemy bombers.

No Seaborne Landings It is authoritatively stated that the Germans had made no seaborne landings in Crete prior to dusk on May 22. Landings from the air continue, and the Germans still hold Melami aerodrome, which apparently is the only sizeable foothold they have gained for any length of time.

Troop-carriers’ Difficulties It is pointed out that British troopcarriers would be forced to land in the face of almost unopposed enemy bombing if British reinforcement by air was attempted. The British position regarding ammunition supplies is regarded as more favourable than the enemy’s. It is believed that British troops in Crete are suffering a minimum of casualties from dive bombing because the nature of the country affects the accuracy of bombing. The British forces are well dug in. King George of Greece is believed to be still in Crete.