Greece And Crete: Australians In World War II

AUSTRALIAN MILITARY HISTORY World War II –

“Manuscript originally published as: A great risk in a good cause by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Canberra, 2001”

First Edition. Expanded Edition.

• 220 p. : ill. (some col.), maps, ports. ; 24 cm.

• • World War, 1939-1945 — Participation, Australian
  • World War, 1939-1945 — Campaigns — Greece
  • World War, 1939-1945 — Campaigns — Greece — Crete
  • World War, 1939-1945 — Campaigns — Greece — Pictorial works
  • World War, 1939-1945 — Campaigns — Greece — Crete — Pictorial works
  • World War, 1939-1945 — Participation, Australian — Pictorial works
  • Australian
  • #050725
  • The Australian Army participated in the campaigns in Greece and Crete during World War II, facing fierce German forces. The Greek campaign, which included the 6th Division, AIF, resulted in significant Australian casualties. Following the German invasion of Greece, many Australian troops were evacuated to Crete, where they fought in another intense campaign against German airborne and ground forces. Ultimately, both campaigns resulted in heavy losses for the Australians, including deaths, injuries, and prisoners of war. 

    Greek Campaign (1941):

    • Allied Support:

      The Australian forces, alongside British and New Zealand troops, were sent to support the Greek army against the invading German forces. 
    • Initial Successes:

      Local Australian units achieved some success in combat, but the overall Allied position was weakened by the German advance. 
    • Evacuation:

      The Allied forces were eventually forced to evacuate Greece, with over 50,000 troops, including many Australians, being evacuated by sea. 
    • Heavy Losses:

      The Greek campaign resulted in significant Australian casualties, with 320 killed, 494 wounded, and over 2,000 taken prisoner. 

    Crete Campaign (1941):

    • German Airborne Invasion:

      In May 1941, the Germans launched a large-scale airborne invasion of Crete, targeting key airfields. 
    • Initial Resistance:

      Australian troops, along with other Allied forces, initially resisted the German advance, but the capture of Maleme airfield allowed for the reinforcement of German troops. 
    • Evacuation:

      With German forces gaining control, Allied forces were ordered to evacuate Crete. Over 12,000 Allied troops, including 3,000 Australians, were left behind and became prisoners of war. 
    • Heavy Losses:

      The Battle of Crete resulted in substantial Australian losses, with 274 killed, 507 wounded, and over 3,000 taken prisoner. 

    Overall:

    • Significance:

      The Greek and Crete campaigns were significant events in World War II, highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of Australian soldiers in the face of a powerful enemy. 
    • Impact on Australian Forces:

      The campaigns severely impacted the Australian forces, necessitating the rebuilding of the 6th and 2nd New Zealand Divisions. 
    • Commemoration:

      The campaigns are commemorated in Australia, with memorials and events honoring the soldiers who served and the sacrifices made. 

    • Greece and Crete | Department of Veterans’ Affairs

      23 Jan 2020

      DVA
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