I guess it is always the case in war where it is as much luck as anything that results in victory. Reading this volume of Osprey's 'Campaign' series, brings to light that often both sides in an event can grossly misjudge the opposition and the fog of war, as they say, can determine the outcome of battle.

Such was the case with the Crete invasion by the Germans in 1941. This was Germany's one and only major invasion that used airborne troops and paratroops. The result for the Germans was that they took the island, but at such a cost that their airborne units were never again used in anything other than minor operations.

Of course, the Allies didn't exactly fare well in this either. Not only were thousands killed and taken prisoner, but the Royal Navy lost a number of ships and had even more badly damaged trying to evacuate the island.

The Allied forces (mostly New Zealand, Australian and Greek units) were sufficient to remove the Germans in the early stages as the Germans had grossly underestimated the force against them. However, the lack of good communications, proper artillery, the poor moves of some Allied commanders, and the confidence and unit cohesion of the Germans were enough to defeat the Allies in this case.

This fascinating part of WWII history is well written by Peter Antill and the illustrations of Howard Gerrard help to put us into the battle. A full background on both Allied and German commanders is given as is an order of battle that provides us with some insight as to what each side had available to it prior to the event. Osprey has made a mark for itself by providing excellent photos and maps of the battle areas. These guides allow us to see just how the events unfold. Particularly helpful are the 3D presentations that add in some depth so that we can picture how the terrain adds to the overall picture.

A most interesting read of what turned out to be a unique event for the Germans in WWII, and a book that I can highly recommend.

May 2005

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