85 years on we remember those who served in the Battle of Crete

85 years on from an unwinnable battle, today we remember the immense sacrifice of those who served in the Battle of Crete.

From 20 May to 1 June 1941, Australian units fought alongside Greek, Cretan, British and New Zealand forces on Crete.

A defining moment of the Second World War, the 13 day battle solidified an unbreakable bond between Greece and Australia, forging a wartime alliance rooted in common values of courage and mateship.

More than 6,500 Australians took part in the defence against the German invasion, many already battle weary from weeks of fighting on the Greek mainland.

Almost 800 Australians were killed or wounded in the battle and more than 3,000 were captured as prisoners of war. One of those killed was 24-year-old stretcher bearer Private Laurence Colin Keogh, my great uncle.

While the island ultimately fell, the Cretan people never gave up the defence of their homeland and many continued to support, shelter, and fight alongside the Allied soldiers who evaded the occupying forces for several months, living in the island’s rugged mountain ranges.

The bonds forged during the most trying of times underpin the strong friendship between Australia and Greece. After the war, many Greeks migrated to Australia, creating one of the largest Greek communities outside Greece.

Now, 85 years on, we honour those who served in the Battle of Crete, we remember those who lost their lives and we acknowledge the families of those who never returned home.

Visit the Anzac Portal to learn more about the Battle of Crete and the Greece Campaign.

Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or the Open Arms website. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or the Defence Health Portal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608