The Blitz, Canea area defended by NZers, May 1941

This painting by Peter McIntyre, The Blitz, Canea area defended by NZers, depicts an attack by the Luftwaffe (German air force) on the town of Canea in Crete, May 1941. With total dominance of the skies above the island, German aircraft continuously strafed and bombarded Allied ground forces, making movement during the day very dangerous. The Luftwaffe also took a heavy toll on British naval forces during the evacuation of Creforce between 28 May and 1 June 1941.