Islands at War

• JANUARY 1943 - PART 2 DEPORTATION DILEMMAS, RUMOURS, GANG ON THE LOOSE, CRIME, AIRCRAFT AND MUCH MORE

  This conversation delves into the historical context of January 1943 in the Channel Islands during World War II, focusing on the rumours and realities of deportations, the local authorities' responses, and the impact of military actions on the civilian population.  Discussing the complexities of the situation, including the investigation of deportations, the role of local governance.The deportations in January 1943 were a significant concern for the local population.Rumors about deportations circulated widely, causing fear and uncertainty.The German authorities were slow to act on deportation orders due to various logistical issues.Local authorities had differing views on military service and its implications for deportation.Medical examinations were a source of anxiety for many, as they could lead to deportation.The state of the islands reflected the broader struggles of the population during the war.Criminal activities increased amidst the chaos of war, with locals and foreigners involved.Military casualties were a constant reminder of the war's toll on the community.Community engagement in historical research is vital for understanding the past.The conversation highlights the importance of preserving local history and sharing personal stories.Send us a textFollow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected]. Alternatively you can send us a text with the link at the bottom of these notes (only works with iPhones). If you use the text option please include an email address if you want us to contact you. You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress here. Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

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• JANUARY 1943 - PART ONE - SHIPPING SHOCKER, AIR RAIDS, A CRAFTY FRENCHMAN, PARTIES AND MUCH MORE!

  It is January 1943 and as with December 1942 it will be a two episode month because so much happened.   In the first January 1943 episode Keith and Nick talk about:- New Year Parties - some have more fun than others.A crafty French trader who is hedging his political and financial bets.A shocking month for German shipping including the Schokland, VP703 and a Minesweeper.Appalling treatment of Russians onboard the Xaver Dorsch.Multiple air raids including hedge hopping Americans.Orders, Orders Orders....Send us a textFollow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected]. Alternatively you can send us a text with the link at the bottom of these notes (only works with iPhones). If you use the text option please include an email address if you want us to contact you. You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress here. Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

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• DECEMBER 1942 - PART 2 -WHIRLIBOMBERS, WELLINGTONS, FORCED WORKERS, CONVOY ATTACKED, CRIME & MORE

  This episode delves into part 2 of our discussion of  December 1942 in the Channel Islands during the German occupation. It explores the plight of slave workers, the experiences of local residents, the impact of war on daily life, and the German control and surveillance measures in place. The discussion also touches on incidents of violence, transportation challenges, military engagements, and the resilience of the community amidst adversity. The speakers reflect on the historical significance of these events and their implications for understanding the occupation period.The Reverend Ord documented the dire conditions of slave workers.Local residents witnessed the suffering of displaced individuals.The Germans implemented strict surveillance on hotels and boarding houses.Violence and crime increased during the occupation, often attributed to desperate conditions.Transportation was severely limited, impacting daily life and commerce.Charcoal-burning buses were introduced but were not very effective.Military engagements included air attacks that affected local communities.Community members often had to barter for food and clothing due to shortages.The historical context of the occupation reveals the complexities of life during wartime.Reflections on these events provide insights into the resilience of the community.We also talked about the loss of two Whirlwinds during a convoy attack which you can find here.** Breaking News**   Islands at War are delighted to be invited to the the Imperial War Museum London to record a live episode of the show as part of their Podcast Live Festival.  It takes place on 1 November 2025  details on the link here.Send us a textFollow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected]. Alternatively you can send us a text with the link at the bottom of these notes (only works with iPhones). If you use the text option please include an email address if you want us to contact you. You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress here. Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

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• DECEMBER1942 - PART 1 BLACK MARKET, PROHIBITED ZONES, FORCED REGISTRATION FOR LABOUR, REGISTRATION OF GUESTS, RUMOURS OF GERMAN DEPARTUE

  In this episode of Islands at War, hosts Keith Pengelley and Nick Le Huray delve into the complexities of life in Guernsey during the German occupation in December 1942. They discuss the establishment of prohibited zones, the registration of local labour for German work, and the pervasive rumours of German withdrawal. The conversation also touches on the economic challenges faced by the islanders, including supply shortages and the rise of the black market. As Christmas approaches, the hosts reflect on the struggles of families to celebrate amidst scarcity, and the ongoing efforts to control communication and information flow by the occupying forces.TakeawaysThe establishment of prohibited zones was a significant military strategy.Local labour registration was a contentious issue during the occupation.Rumours of German withdrawal circulated widely among the islanders.Supply increases were often misleading and did not reflect true availability.The black market thrived due to resource scarcity and economic pressures.Christmas in 1942 was marked by hardship and creativity in celebrations.Wireless communication remained a point of control for the Germans.The Germans used fear tactics to maintain control over the population.Local responses to German policies varied, with some pushing back against labour demands.The impact of the occupation on daily life was profound and multifaceted.So much to talk about that has often been overlooked, covered here and in part two which will follow.Send us a textFollow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected]. Alternatively you can send us a text with the link at the bottom of these notes (only works with iPhones). If you use the text option please include an email address if you want us to contact you. You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress here. Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

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• VOICE OF THE OCCUPATION - NICK SPEAKS TO OLIVE HAMON ABOUT HER EVACUATION EXPERIENCE AND HER FAMILY EXPERIENCE OF OCCUPATION

  Nick speaks to 95 year old Olive Hamon. This conversation explores the experiences of individuals during the evacuation and occupation of Guernsey during World War II. It delves into personal stories of hardship, resilience, and the impact of war on families. The discussion highlights the roles of women, the humour found amidst adversity, and the lasting legacy of these experiences.Send us a textFollow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected]. Alternatively you can send us a text with the link at the bottom of these notes (only works with iPhones). If you use the text option please include an email address if you want us to contact you. You can find out more about the occupation on Nick’s website Island Fortress here. Thanks to Gnet Radio for recording the podcast and thanks to Jim Delbridge for the use of his song ‘5 to 7’ as our theme.

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