The Battle of Crete: Overlooked Logistics Behind a Pivotal WWII Conflict

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The Battle of Crete fought from 20 May to 1 June 1941, is a significant episode in World War II history, marked by remarkable successes and glaring failures. This battle was the first primarily airborne invasion, where German paratroopers (Fallschirmjäger) played a crucial role in the Axis powers’ strategic operations. Despite the eventual German victory, the high cost of casualties and the fierce resistance from Allied forces, including British, Australian, New Zealand, and Greek troops, left an indelible mark on military tactics and strategy.

While much has been written about the dramatic combat actions and strategic implications of the Battle of Crete, the logistics behind providing ammunition and other essential stores remain unknown. The rapid pace of the German invasion, coupled with the chaotic and desperate defence mounted by the Allies, meant that detailed records of logistical operations were often overlooked or lost. This gap in historical documentation has left many questions unanswered about how the defenders managed to sustain their efforts under such dire circumstances.

However, the War Diary of the New Zealand Division Assistant Director of Ordnance Services (ADOS) is a valuable resource on this overlooked battle aspect. This diary provides a rare and insightful glimpse into the New Zealand Division’s logistic efforts, revealing logistics challenges, resourcefulness, and critical role in the battle. Through the entries of this war diary, we gain a deeper understanding of the behind-the-scenes efforts that supported the front-line troops, highlighting the unsung heroes who, as much as practicably possible, ensured that ammunition and other stores reached those in need, often under the most perilous conditions.

This article explores the lesser-known logistical efforts that played a crucial role in the conflict. By delving into the War Diary of the New Zealand Division ADOS, we aim to provide a different understanding of the battle, understanding the resilience and ingenuity of those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to support the New Zealand defence.

Following the disastrous Greek campaign, General Freyberg assumed command of Crete Force (Creforce) for the defence of Crete on 1 May 1941, deploying approximately 28,600 British, Australian, Greek, and New Zealand troops across four sectors: Heraklion, Retimo, Suda Bay, and Maleme. Despite the seemingly adequate size of this force, several factors significantly reduced its combat effectiveness. The Germans held complete air superiority, with only the British 14th Brigade fully equipped. A severe shortage of small arms ammunition and the lack of vehicles rendered mobile defence impossible. Each sector had to maintain a static defence within its locality, contributing to the island’s immobility and, ultimately, the failure to repel the enemy.

Initially, the Ordnance aspects of the operation were under the command of Creforce Assistant Director of Ordnance Services (ADOS) Lieutenant-Colonel J. Hitchcock of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps (RAOC), who arrived on 24 April. However, by mid-May, he was recalled to Egypt, and the leadership was passed to Lieutenant-Colonel S. T. Rooke RAOC, who had also been evacuated from Greece.[1]

There was a small RAOC Base Ordnance Depot (BOD)depot in Canea, with a Base Ammunition Depot (BAD) established approximately two miles south at Katisfariana. Following the evacuation of forces from Greece and their immediate pivot to defend Crete, the immediate task was to supply clothing, essentials, blankets, and accommodation stores to thousands of troops who had landed from Greece. Three camps were set up:

  • Peribolia for 17,000 British troops
  • Kalibes for 12,000 men of the 6th Australian Division
  • Platanias for 14,000 New Zealanders
British, Australian and New Zealand troops disembark at Suda Bay, Crete, during World War II. New Zealand. Department of Internal Affairs. War History Branch. Ref: DA-01611-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/23172196

This number was eleven times greater than originally planned for clothing and equipment supply. Transporting stores between ports was primarily conducted by caiques under cover of night. However, the supply of weapons and ammunition remained highly problematic. The general strategy involved holding ammunition primarily in fighting sectors, with only a fifth stored in the BAD. The LADs, having been forced to abandon their equipment in Greece, were severely restricted in their capacity for first-line repairs.

The Australians benefited from the well-trained 3 Advanced Ordnance Depot (3AOD) supporting their division, whereas New Zealand’s ordnance support was more ad hoc.[2] It relied on New Zealand Ordnance Corps (NZOC) members from the NZ Divisional staff to establish makeshift Ordnance Dumps and a distribution system. Major Allan Huia Andrews, as the New Zealand Division Assistant Director of Ordnance Services (ADOS), and Captain John Owen Kelsey, serving as DADOS Engineering (DADOS(E)), commanded these efforts. However, both Divisions struggled because the proper supply and support systems that should have been in place for such a campaign were non-existent.

The NZ Division ADOS war diary opened on 25 May 1941 as the NZ Division ADOS evacuated from Greece and arrived in Crete

25 April

At sea

Convoy attacked but raiders driven off.

Arrived at Crete

26 April

At Crete

27 April

With ADOS to see ADOS of Creforce and W/Ksps.

Issued with 1 8-cwt truck for Div HQ.

28 April

Act as Div Transport officer with 6 trucks ex Welch Regt.

Move to Div HQ location

29 April

Normal routine

30 April

To 1Fd Wksp to take OC’s orderly room in the absence of ADOS. Case of Private Burnt who discharged a rifle and killed a local inhabitant. Summary of evidence and charges read to the accused who pleads “Not Guilty”. The case is remanded. Summary of evidence submitted to ADOS.

ADOS Leave Crete, and I am temporally appointed to act for him

1 May

After the departure of Major Andrews, Major Kelsey was temporarily appointed DADOS of the Maleme Sector of Crete Force.

Collected stores and ammunition from Ordnance Dump for Div. Reserves.

To Inspect NZ Ordnance Dump.

Reported on the position of re-equipment of NZ Units to AA and QMG

2 May

Completed report of DADOS(E) on the work of Fd. Workshops, LADs. and OFP. in Greece and submitted this to DDOS, HQ 2NZEF

3 May

Normal routine

4 May

Collected supplies from BOD. Normal routine

5 May

Collected supplies from BOD. Normal routine.

6 May

Distributed shorts, shirts, hose tops, 2” and 3” Mortars, Anti-Tank Rifles and ammunition to Units.

7 May

To Canea to interview ADOS and COO of Crete Force

Further distribution of clothing and camp equipment to 5 Inf Bde

8 May

Normal Routine

10 May

Normal routine

Further distribution of stores and ammunition to units

11 May

Normal routine

12 May

To see ADOS Creforce and work with him on plan for equipping NZ units on a pro-rata basis

13 May

Fierce Air Raid over Suda Bay.

Bdes issued with 5 Carriers Bren each.

All units were requested to render deficiencies in clothing and camp equipment.

Distributed 1400 coils of wire and pickets to 5 and 10 Bdes.

14 May 1941

Further distribution of ammunition, wire, and pickets to all units.

Issue of 12 M/Cycles to NZ units.

Move with Div. HQ. to a new location 1 1/2 miles from Canea.

 Heavy Air Raid.

15 May

Move the NZ Ordnance Dump to the NZ Div HQ area as there was no protection where this dump was previously located.

Prepare issue orders for all Bde Groups.

Lieut Cooper (16 LAD) was instructed to report to Suda Bay to assemble 75mm French and Italian Guns

16 May

To Canea to investigate the position of Ordnance supplies

Heavy Air raid in Suda Bay

17 May

36 15cwt trucks and 7 M/Cycles issued to NZ units

18 May

Normal routine

19 May

Normal routine

20 May

The German invasion of Crete began, and the parachutists landed.

General strafing all-day

Delivered ammunition as follows:

97250rds SAA

20000rds Stripless LMG

500rds A/Tk

Cpl Solon was taken prisoner but later recaptured.

21 May

Repetition of the previous day.

Collect ammunition reserve at dawn

Issue and blankets to German wounded

Heavy naval action at sea

Ammunition issued as follows:

110000rds SAA

100 Grenades

1100rds 75mm French and Italian

22 May

Very fierce strafing during the afternoon.

Ammunition issued as follows

97000rds SAA

6000rds Stripless LMG

340 Grenades

23 May

Very fierce strafing and bombing

Ammunition and stores issued as follows:

27000rds SAA

200 A/Tk mine

148 Grenades

700 Shovels

190 Picks

70 Coils of wire

140 Pickets

100 Local Bombs

24 May

The worst staffing so far experienced

Canea was systematically bombed.

Propose to recommend WO1 Schou for decoration for his conspicuous gallantry in delivering ammunition to units.

I was promoted to the rank of temp major while performing the duties of DADOS (E ).

Ammunition and stores issued as follows

90000rds SAA

10000rds Stripless SAA

480rds 75mm

8000rds Thompson Sub-MG

72rds Mortar 3”

60 coils wire and pickets

250 Shovels

60 Picks

25 May

Div HQ bombed

Ammunition issued as follows:

55000rds SAA

6000rds Stripless

2000rds Thompson Sub-MG

500rds A/tk

Div HQ moved to new location by wireless station outside Canea.

BAD Canea objects to the issue of ammunition after midnight as “their books were closed”. However, ammunition was obtained.

26 May

Serious strafing.

Bdes retiring

Take back 3 Ammunition lorries fully loaded to the east of Suda Bay and join Div HQ there

27 May

Move again down Sparkis Road.

Deliver Ammunition to 4 and 5 Bdes as follows:

100000rds SAA

10000rds Stripless LMG

2000rds Thompson Sub-MG

Strafed ceaselessly all day.

Move only at night.

28 May

Ammunition lorries taken by Force HQ.

Move again with Div HQ

Learn of evacuation scheme

29 May

Food and water position acute

March 12 miles to Embarkation Point but remain there.

30 May

Moral of troops getting low on account of enemy air activity and lack of food and water.

Prepare to embark

31 May

Embark with Div HQ at 2 am on destroyer “Nizam” and cross to Alexandria.

Bombed by 12 Planes en route but with only one “near miss”.

Arrive in Alexandria at 1830hrs.

ADOS NZ Div DADOS(E) War Diary for April 1941

World War II paratroopers and aeroplanes in the sky above Crete. New Zealand. Department of Internal Affairs. War History Branch : Ref: DA-12638-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22913202

In conclusion, the Battle of Crete was pivotal in World War II, marked by heroic defiance and sobering logistical challenges. From May 20 to June 1, 1941, German forces conducted the first large-scale airborne invasion in history, targeting the strategically vital island defended by British, Australian, New Zealand, and Greek troops. Despite fierce resistance, the overwhelming German air superiority and logistical deficiencies amongst the Allies ultimately led to their defeat.

While the battle is often remembered for its strategic implications and high casualties, the logistical efforts behind supplying essential stores like ammunition remained largely unexamined. The NZ Division ADOS War Diary offers a glimpse into the critical logistics operations that sustained the New Zealand defence. It reveals the resourcefulness and dedication of personnel who, under extreme conditions, where practicable possible, ensured that vital supplies reached frontline troops.

The logistical challenges faced during the battle, such as ammunition shortages and makeshift supply systems, underscore the critical importance of logistics in military operations. Though overshadowed by the dramatic combat actions, these efforts were instrumental in supporting the frontline troops and mitigating the impact of German assaults.

In commemorating the Battle of Crete, honouring the valour of those who fought on the front lines and the unsung heroes who laboured tirelessly behind the scenes is essential. Their contributions, as detailed in the War Diary and other historical records, provide a deeper understanding of the complexities and sacrifices of war. By remembering these logistical efforts, we gain a more comprehensive perspective on the battle, highlighting the resilience and ingenuity that defined the New Zealand defence on the island of Crete.

Thus, the Battle of Crete serves as a poignant reminder of the intertwined roles of combat and logistics in shaping war outcomes, leaving an enduring legacy in military history.

Notes

[1] Fernyhough, A. H. (1958). History of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps 1920-1945, Royal Army Ordnance Corps.

[2] Tilbrook, J. D. (1989). To the warrior his arms: A History of the Ordnance Services in the Australian Army Royal Australian Army Ordnance Corps Committee.

New Zealand Mobile Bath Unit, 1941-45

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Amid the tumultuous landscape of World War Two, a Mobile Bath Unit emerged as a contributor to the triumph of the 2nd New Zealand Division in the Middle East and Italy. Picture this: battle-weary troops, having endured weeks of relentless pursuit through deserts and muddy fields in pursuit of the enemy, suddenly find themselves in a surreal moment. Covered in grime and exhaustion, they are met by an extraordinary sight – a unit ready to offer them a hot shower and a complete change of clothing. This transformation is nothing short of miraculous, revitalising soldiers’ spirits amid the hardships of war. The impact on morale is so profound that one can surmise that, at times, the enemy may have deliberately targeted Bath units for elimination, recognising their pivotal role. This article provides historical context on the NZEF Mobile Bath unit, which operated from 1941 to 1945, spanning Egypt, Syria, and Italy. It sheds light on the unit’s vital role in the overall success of the 2nd New Zealand Division during this pivotal period of World War Two.

Following the British model, the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) incorporated a Bath unit into its organisational structure and war establishment. This unfamiliar capability posed challenges to the NZEF leadership, as they lacked experience in this field. There was considerable uncertainty about whether this responsibility fell under Ordnance or the Medical Corps, leading to delays in forming this units. On 15 November 1940, confirmation was received from NZEF liaison staff in London that Bath services did indeed fall under Ordnance responsibility.

Discussions persisted throughout 1941 regarding establishing a Bath unit, with the primary issue being whether this unit should be formed, equipped, and trained in New Zealand before deployment to the Middle East or formed from within the existing structure of the NZEF. Despite these ongoing deliberations, the NZEF Order of Battle was updated on 17 April 1941 to include a Divisional Mobile Bath Unit as part of the NZEF.

Authorisation for the formation of these units under the New Zealand Ordnance Corps (NZOC) was granted on 31 August 1941, with the Mobile Bath unit scheduled for formation on 6 September 1941.

In September 1941, a unit twenty-one strong, consisting of one officer and twenty other ranks, was formed through a call for volunteers. Most of the personnel initially came from infantry units. The initial officer Commanding (OC) was 2nd Lieutenant Astly. On 16 September 1941, the unit was assembled at the Engineer and Ordnance Training Depot (E&OTD).

Following the unit’s formation, most personnel spent five days at the Helwan prisoner of war camp, familiarising themselves with a British-run Bath unit. Upon their return to their depot, they discovered that their equipment had not arrived, and it was uncertain whether such equipment was even in Egypt.

Courses on compass work and similar activities began but became tedious. It was at this point that the unit undertook a crucial task. In the day’s scorching heat, they manually laid approximately 2560 cubic feet of concrete and constructed the entire set of buildings that would house the 6th Division Workshops. This gruelling work lasted for about three months, during which pieces of the unit’s equipment were gradually acquired piecemeal from various Base Ordnance Depots (BODs).

In early 2 December, Lieutenant P. Hawkins assumed command. On 10 January 1942, the unit left Maadi camp for the Canal Zone, where they served alongside the NZ Division on the Great Bitter Lake. They also provided showers to Indian and British troops at Kabrit, Fayid, and other locations in the zone. Despite facing minor challenges, such as a four-day sandstorm, they accomplished valuable work. Two incidents stood out during this time: a raid on a nearby airfield by enemy planes and a fire that destroyed the Shaftes picture theatre.

Vehicle Tactical Sign, NZ Division Mobile Bath Unit (1941)

The NZ Division moved to Syria in February, and the bath unit followed on 13 March. Without their own transport, the Bath unit relied on other units, often unloading and camping in various locations on-route. They reached Baalbeck on 20 March and began working alongside the 27th Battalion machine gunners, performing several months of essential tasks, including laying concrete floors by a creek fed by historic springs.

Syria provided an interesting change from the Egyptian sands, with the unit’s OC arranging many fascinating day trips to cities like Beirut, Damascus, Aleppo, Tripoli, and even Turkey. When the Division was hastily recalled to Egypt, the unit returned on 20 June, calling at the small town of Zahlie for a few days, where they joined up with the mobile laundry. Leaving on 29 June for Kfar Vitkin in Palestine. And then making stops along the way before arriving back in Maadi Camp. In July, they reorganised and left for the western desert, beginning operations at Burg el Arab in August.

After nearly a month in Burg el Arab, their water supply was requisitioned for urgent needs, leading to their return to Maadi Camp. The unit was temporarily disbanded, with the disinfector returned to BOD to allow full credit to be extended to the New Zealand Government, effectively covering its entire cost. The bath equipment was retained as an asset of New Zealand and stored at the E&OTD, anticipating potential future deployment in other theatres of operation.

On 22 August 1942, eleven Other Ranks from the Bath Unit were transferred back to their respective depots. The formal disbandment of both the NZ Divisional Mobile Bath Unit occurred on 30 September 1942, with the OC and remaining Other Ranks of the bath unit transferred to other branches of the NZOC on the understanding that if the bath capabilities were to be regenerated, these men would be released to train and have the unit fully operational within a matter of days.

In September 1943, the Bath unit was reformed at Maadi as 1 NZ Mobile Bath Unit, with 2nd Lieutenant D. Ewing in charge. The personnel remained the same in number, including two members from the previous unit who provided valuable information. However, the shower did not function as expected.

In October 1943, the NZ Division and the newly formed 1 NZ Mobile Bath Unit conducted a covert move from Egypt to the southern regions of Italy. In late October, the flight personnel left Alexandria, with the unit Drivers and equipment departing Port Said for Italy. After some travel, they arrived near the Sangro River and commenced operations. Despite challenges, the unit improved its functioning, and on New Year’s Eve, they faced a heavy snowstorm that transformed their surroundings. Despite the adversity, they carried on with their work.

As the Division moved to the Fifth Army front, the unit went to Atessa and proceeded northwest, proving invaluable to the Mobile Laundry unit by towing heavy trailers. In November 1943, the NZ Division ADOS expressed the intention to streamline administration by placing the Mobile Bath Unit under the command of the Officer Commanding the Mobile Laundry Unit. This move aimed to achieve greater efficiency in the management of both units.

On 16 February 1944, the NZ Mobile Bath Unit was disbanded, and concurrently, the NZ Mobile Laundry Unit was rebranded as the NZ Mobile Laundry and Bath Unit (NZ Mob Laundry & Bath Unit).

This restructuring aligned the New Zealand organisation with the British Army War Establishment II/293/1 of December 1943, categorised as a Type B: Mobile Field Laundry and Bath Unit. The mobile bath component of the MLBU consisted of four independent shower sections, one attached to each brigade and one remaining with the laundry.

Water for showers was drawn from a stream or other suitable supply by an electric pump, heated in a locally designed boiler fired with oil and water, and passed into a shower room, a tent with duckboards laid out inside, where six showers were available. A larger tent forming a dressing room opened into the shower tent. The water supply was continuous, and men could use as much as they pleased, within reasonable limits, with the duration of showers determined by the number waiting to go through. The showers used two hundred gallons of water an hour, and each section could manage 500- 600 men daily.

Vehicle Tactical Sign 2 NZ Mobile Laundry and Bath Unit (1944)

The figures below show the number of men who received showers. In cases where the numbers are low or incomplete, this can be attributed to the lack of recorded data during the Division’s advance or during periods when sufficient shower facilities were available within the Divisional area, rendering the full-time operation of mobile units unnecessary. An example of this was when the Division was billeted around Trieste.


Throughout the Italian campaign, the NZ Mob Laundry & Bath Unit supported the NZ Division, often deploying detachments to provide frontline units with essential services. The unit continued its service until it was disbanded as part of the NZEF on 8 December 1945.