Description
Discover the gripping narrative of 'Battle for Crete,' a meticulously researched account by John Hall that delves into the momentous events surrounding the evacuation of British, Australian, and New Zealand forces to Crete in April 1941. This paperback edition, comprising 318 pages, offers readers an in-depth exploration of both the political and military landscapes leading up to the first airborne assault in history. The author utilized two years of research, which included firsthand visits to the battlefields and access to unpublished Admiralty files, evidencing the deep commitment to historical accuracy. Engage with the compelling stories of key figures like Admiral Lord Cunningham and Colonel-General Student, alongside the voices of ordinary soldiers. 'Battle for Crete' offers a rich understanding of the chaotic negotiations between Anthony Eden and the Greek government, and the strategical blunders of the British War Cabinet regarding the defense of Crete. Experience the harrowing details of the fighting on the strategic Maleme airfield and the Royal Navy's relentless operations amidst Stuka dive-bomber attacks. Concluding with a harrowing retreat through the treacherous White Mountains to a remote evacuation beach, this book is essential for history enthusiasts keen on World War II and military strategy. 'Battle for Crete' is not just a book; it is a portal into the trials faced by those during one of history’s critical turning points.
By Spencer, John Hall
Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
Number of Pages 318
Publisher Pen & Sword Books Ltd
Battle for Crete is a fine account of the political and military prelude to the evacuation of British, Australian and New Zealand forces from Greece to Crete in April 1941, and of the subsequent German offensive against Crete, the first airborne assault in history on a defended island. During two year's research the author visited the battlefields, had access to previously unpublished Admiralty files, and talked to and corresponded with many of the combatants, from Admiral of the Fleet Lord Cunningham and Colonel- General Student, the German commander, to scores of private soldiers in Australia and New Zealand. He tells of confused negotiations between Anthony Eden and the Greek Government and of the even great confusion between the British War Cabinet and their commanders in the field about the decision to defend Crete; of the arrival in Greece of General Wilson disguised as 'Mr Watt'; of the lack of preparation in Crete and the suppression of a critical report at the request of General Wavell; and of the perilous last-minute escape of the King of Greece. Of the fighting itself on the vital Maleme airfield, the author records alternate German and New Zealand experience at the level of the ordinary fighting soldier. There are also chapters on the Royal Navy's operations under dawn-to-dusk attack from Stuka divebombers; and the book closes with an account of the terrible retreat over the 8,000-foot White Mountains to the tiny evacuation beach on the desolate southern coast. John Hall Spen
By Spencer, John Hall
Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
Number of Pages 318
Publisher Pen & Sword Books Ltd
Battle for Crete is a fine account of the political and military prelude to the evacuation of British, Australian and New Zealand forces from Greece to Crete in April 1941, and of the subsequent German offensive against Crete, the first airborne assault in history on a defended island. During two year's research the author visited the battlefields, had access to previously unpublished Admiralty files, and talked to and corresponded with many of the combatants, from Admiral of the Fleet Lord Cunningham and Colonel- General Student, the German commander, to scores of private soldiers in Australia and New Zealand. He tells of confused negotiations between Anthony Eden and the Greek Government and of the even great confusion between the British War Cabinet and their commanders in the field about the decision to defend Crete; of the arrival in Greece of General Wilson disguised as 'Mr Watt'; of the lack of preparation in Crete and the suppression of a critical report at the request of General Wavell; and of the perilous last-minute escape of the King of Greece. Of the fighting itself on the vital Maleme airfield, the author records alternate German and New Zealand experience at the level of the ordinary fighting soldier. There are also chapters on the Royal Navy's operations under dawn-to-dusk attack from Stuka divebombers; and the book closes with an account of the terrible retreat over the 8,000-foot White Mountains to the tiny evacuation beach on the desolate southern coast. John Hall Spen