The battle began on May 20, 1941, and resulted in Greek soldiers fighting alongside six Australian brigades, two New Zealand brigades and British forces led by New Zealander, Major General Bernard Freyberg.

The Germans shelved future major airborne attacks in enemy-occupied territory after the devastating consequences of their 10-day invasion of Crete.

The southern Greek island became known as the graveyard of the Fallschirmjager after more than 4000 Germans died when 8100 parachutists were dropped over the villages of Hania, Maleme and Rethymno.

Losses for the 39,000 strong Allied forces were heavy with estimates of more than 3500 soldiers dead (including up to 1000 Australians and New Zealanders), 1900 wounded and 17,000 captured.

The battle was a critical strategic victory for the Allies who were short of equipment and artillery. Crete was conquered eventually, but the battle hindered the German campaign in the Middle East and delayed their invasion of Russia until June 1941. During the retreat and evacuation of Allied soldiers, villagers hid and fed Anzac troops, but many citizens were killed in German reprisal attacks.

The shared sacrifices of Anzacs and Greeks will be commemorated at a service at the Cenotaph in Martin Place, Sydney, at 2pm this Saturday, May 17.