Part 36: Turn 32: Night 23rd May

Game Turn 32: Night, 23rd May

As the fighting drags on, the supply situation is being felt negatively, by both sides: while the airfield in Maleme is providing ample resources to the Germans there, the occasional drops in Rethymnon and Heraklion do not do enough. The Allies, on the other hand, are having a lot of their shipments interdicted by the Luftwaffe. Although it would have no effect on the fighting yet, if the supply conditions continue to worsen, both sides could feel the pinch soon enough.

The 4th NZ Brigade repositions to straighten the line: although the division has had many losses in the past few days, it is still capable of packing a punch if necessary.



The 7th Flieger Division also repositions, and provides some covering fire for the 3rd LLSR Company: some of the mortar fire is surprisingly effective consider the late hour, and many Australians are unfortunately hit in their fox holes while attempting to sleep, with C Company of the 2/1 Infantry Regiment hit especially hard. In Rethymnon, a localised attack by the remaining paratroopers there also causes many casualties on the Australians in that sector.



Light mortar fire has its usual lack of effect, but it does manage to finally take out the recoilless rifle company in Heraklion, and as well as that, fortifications are finally finished in the dock-side area.



GJR 85 is almost back on its trip from Kastelli, and Oberst Krakau speeds ahead to join the column marching off the airfield.



GJR 100, still wanting to press the attack, infiltrates ahead during the night in order to be ready for a morning attack, although the southern flank, only populated by motorbike infantry, remains immobile. The infiltration is just in the nick of time, as dawn finally rises, bringing the 5th day of almost continuous combat.