Germany has launched an air attack, spearheaded by paratroopers, on the forty thousand British, Commonwealth and Greek forces on Crete.

Most had withdrawn there following the fall of Greece in April.

Fighting is centered on the airbase at Maleme, the sole German foothold on Crete, where hand-to-hand combat is reported.

Offshore, a naval battle continues between German troop transport ships and British naval vessels attempting to thwart a German amphibious landing.

Heavy losses are reported on both sides.

Get full access to Photo of the Day at look.substack.com/subscribe