24 Enemy Planes Downed Without Loss To R.A.F.

Northern Advocate, 27 May 1941, Page 5

24 Enemy Planes Downed Without Loss To R.A.F.

[British Official Wireless] (Rec. 12.30 p.m.) . RUGBY, May 26. One of the outstanding air successes in the operations in Crete, resulting in the destruction of at least 24 enemy aircraft for no British losses, is _ described in the Royal Air Force Middle East communique. The 24 planes, of all types, were destroyed, while a number of others were badly damaged on the aerodrome at Malemi and adjacent airfields used as landing grounds for gliders and troop carriers. Bombs were observed to fall among large concentrations of Junkers 52 troop-carriers, causing great destruction and damage. One Junkers 52 was hit on landing, and another set on fire as it was taxiing. Fighters set on fire several other aircraft.

Fighters on Ground

In addition, planes, including several fighters, were destroyed on the ground, and one Junkers 52 was shot down by our bombers. A fighter shot down a Junkers 89 transport-carrier into Suda Bay, and damaged another, which was last seen with smoke pouring from it. Photographs taken during the raids confirm the severe damage which has been done to many enemy aircraft. New Zealanders Counter-Attack A Cairo communique says that there is no change in' the situation at Candia and Retimo. In the Malemi area, following the arrival of additional air-borne reinforcements, the Germans, under cover of an intensive bombardment, delivered a strong attack against our troops west of Canea. Although the enemy again sustained heavy losses, they did not penetrate our positions. The New Zealand forces delivered a counter-attack and severe fighting is continuing.