STRONG POSITIONS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 7 April 1941, Page 5

STRONG POSITIONS

TAKEN BV THE GREEKS IN ALBANIA SIX THOUSAND FOOT HEIGHT SEIZED. ENEMY TANK ATTACK J REPULSED. (British Official Wireless.) RUGBY, April 5. A Greek communique states: “After local operations which were crowned with success, we have occupied strong enemy positions, and taken more than 70 prisoners, including an officer, and a large quantity of material has fallen into our hands. At another point on the front an enemy attempt to attack our positions with tanks was repulsed by anti-tank guns. The importance of this communique is explained in a Press message from the Albanian front, which states that the positions occupied were on a strategic height of 2000 metres on the north front. Greek troops in carrying out a econnaissance came to the conclusion that this height could be taken, and after artillery preparation the attack was launched in the morning. Great difficulties were encountered,, for snow lay thick, and was still falling, but, mastering the obstacles, the Greek troops attacked the Italian . defence works from the front and flanks. The enemy defended the positions obstinately, but, when menaced with encirclement, they made a precipitate retreat, leaving the prisoners and material in Greek hands. At one point the Italians attacked with tanks, and when they were forced to retreat, it seemed that two tanks were damaged. Information has been received that the Italian commanders were anxious to attempt a new attack, but the troops showed little desire to go into battle. In fact, the only cry heard 'was “Basta!” that is to say, “Enough!” Yesterday’s Greek headquarters communique stated: “There has been patrol activity and artillery fire. We eaotured some prisoners, including an officer. Rifles, automatics, and mortars fell into our hands.” Athens reports stated that there was no Italian activity on Thursday, not even by patrols. The Italians were occupied both by night and day completing their defensive system. An aerial engagement between five Greek planes and Italian planes took place over Florina. Two of the Italian machines were brought down. One fell into enemy territory and the other in Greek territory. The Greek planes sustained no loss. STAFF TALKS BRITISH OFFICERS IN TURKEY. ANKARA. April 5. Major-General Creagh and Brigadier Pollock, accompanied by LieutenantGeneral Marshall Cornwall and Air Vice-Marshal Elmhirst, from the Middle East headquarters, have arrived at Ankara en route to Istanbul. They will later inspect aerodromes, fortifications and troops in Turkish Thrace. Admiral Sir Howard Kelly, who is permanently resident in Ankara, will represent the Navy at staff talks with the Turkish General Staff.