The troop deployment on Crete on 20 May 1941 was unimpressive

At the time of the attack on Crete on 20 May 1941, the troops available were deployed in a manner that someone thought was reasonable. The 5th New Zealand Brigade was trying to defend the airfield at Meleme and the nearby beaches. The newly organized 10th Brigade was facing west on the "coastal plain", west of Galatas. The 4th New Zealand Brigade was deployed to their back, facing east and were to be ready to move where needed. They apparently formed some sort of reserve. The 1st Greek Regiment was deployed at Kastelli, a "little port". The regiment was small and was composed of young men, under-armed, and pretty much untrained. General Weston commanded the force defending Suda Bay. THe Australians under Brigadier Vasey were at Retimo and were to defend the harbour, airfield, and the nearby beaches. Two battalions stayed at Retimo with a third to the west at Georgioupolis Bay. They were seven miles away, so they were unsupported. This is based on the account in Vol.II of the Australian Official History.