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Battle for Maleme Airfield

Commander, today early in the morning german paratroopers and gliders landed in the area around Maleme Airfield. We are taken by surprise and our troops of 5th New Zealand Brigade are still in their barracks located around the airfield - 21st battalion in Tavronitis to the west, 22nd Battalion in Vlakheronitissa to the south and 23rd battalion in Pirgos to the east. On the airfield itself we have one reserve company of 22nd Battalion, mortar battery and airfield personnel with engineer equipment. Enemy goal is clear - germans are going to capture the airfield to bring additional reinforcements. We must stop them at all costs. The situation is difficult. Crete General HQ in Chania reports of several enemy landings in other parts of the island, so don't expect any reinforcements.