The collapse of Greek resistance on the mainland and the evacuation of British Commonwealth forces left Cretan Commander New Zealand General Bernard C. Freyberg with the knowledge that the island would be the next logical strategic target. Crete’s geographic location put its three airfields within striking distance of the Rumanian oil fields, cut the Aegean off from the Mediterranean, and provided a base to strike at Italy, North Africa, and Greece.

The War Expands Around The World

Hitler begins an invasion of Russia, violating his own strategy. England survives losses in Greece and Crete, but wins against the Italians in Libya until the Germans arrive. At the end of the year, attacked by the Axis, the United States joins the war.