Islands at War

Summary

In this episode, the hosts discuss the sentiments surrounding the year 1944 in the Channel Islands, reflecting on the mix of optimism and despair among the local population. They explore various themes such as the impact of occupation on daily life, the resilience of the community through cultural activities, the significance of diary entries, the presence of Russian prisoners, and the challenges of food rationing. The conversation also delves into military operations, the role of the Red Cross, and the complexities of justice under occupation, all while highlighting personal stories and historical reflections that shape the narrative of this tumultuous period.

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If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].

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.

Summary

This conversation explores the experiences of individuals and communities in the Channel Islands during World War II, focusing on personal stories, military operations, and the impact of the German occupation. It highlights the resilience of the local population, the challenges of rationing, and the cultural heritage at risk during the war. The discussion also reflects on the significance of events like the Hardtack raids and the hopes for liberation in 1944.

Find pictures we talked about here
Takeaways

The stories of individuals like Hedwig and Dorothea highlight the personal struggles during the war.
The Hardtack raids were significant in gathering intelligence about German forces.
Local reactions to the German occupation varied, with some showing resilience and others fear.
Cultural heritage sites faced destruction during the occupation, raising ethical concerns.
Repatriation of prisoners was a complex process influenced by the Geneva Convention.
Life in Guernsey was marked by rationing and community support during the occupation.
Christmas 1943 was celebrated with limited resources, showcasing the spirit of the community.
The black market thrived as people sought to obtain scarce goods.
Air activity increased as military operations ramped up in preparation for D-Day.
Reflections on 1943 reveal a mix of despair and hope for the future.

Send us a text
If you use the send us a text option and would like us to contact you please leave a contact method such as an email.
Follow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.

If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].

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.

Summary
This conversation delves into the experiences of the Channel Islands during World War II, focusing on personal stories of individuals like Zepernick and Hedwig Bercau, the impact of the occupation on daily life, political struggles, and significant events such as the sinking of HMS Charybdis. The discussion highlights themes of survival, resistance, and the importance of remembering the ordinary lives affected by war.
Takeaways
The occupation of the Channel Islands during WWII had profound effects on daily life.
Oberleutnant Zepernick was a significant German figure in Jersey, known for his interactions with civilians.
Hedwig Bercau's story highlights the dangers faced by Jewish individuals during the occupation.
Children's allowances were a contentious political issue during the occupation.
The sinking of HMS Charybdis was a major naval event with lasting impacts.
Robberies and theft were common as people struggled to survive.
The fall of the De Sausmarez monument symbolised the German occupation's disregard for local heritage.
Housing shortages created significant challenges for residents during the occupation.
Acts of defiance, such as stealing back bicycles, were small victories for the occupied.
The conversation reflects on the importance of remembering the ordinary lives affected by war.
See pictures we talk about here https://island-fortress.com/2026/01/05/november-1943-hedwig-escapes-monument-blown-up-funeral-furore-and-much-more/

Send us a text
If you use the send us a text option and would like us to contact you please leave a contact method such as an email.
Follow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.

If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].

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.

Nick spoke to Dave Hewitt a long term listener to the show, and a man who has spent 40 years exploring occupation history. Dave is based in the UK but Nick and he caught up on a recent visit to the Island.

In this conversation, Dave shares his deep passion for the history of the occupation of the Channel Islands during World War II. He discusses his journey of discovery, the extensive collection of books and artifacts he has amassed, and the personal connections he has made with the history and the people involved. The importance of raising awareness about this often-overlooked history is emphasized, along with the impact of Liberation Day and the role of community in preserving these stories for future generations.

Dave has been visiting the Channel Islands for over 40 years.
His interest in the occupation began with a local news program in the late 1970s.
He has collected around 350 to 400 books and artifacts related to the occupation.
The occupation is often seen as a forgotten history that needs more awareness.
Personal stories from locals provide valuable insights into the occupation experience.
Liberation Day is a significant event that showcases local pride and remembrance.
Community efforts are crucial in preserving the history of the occupation.
Cultural representations, like films, can spark interest in the occupation's history.
Dave treasures a V-badge he received as a gift, symbolizing the personal connection to the occupation.
He hopes to pass on his passion for history to future generations. 

It was an absolute pleasure to catch up with him and he will definitely be appearing in future episodes.  Not least because he gave me a cracking idea for a panel episode on the podcast.

Send us a text
If you use the send us a text option and would like us to contact you please leave a contact method such as an email.
Follow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.

If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].

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.

In this episode recorded on the 82nd Anniversary of two Commando raids on the Channel Islands.   Including the only Commando raid on Jersey, Operation Hardtack 28,  and the second Commando raid on Sark Operation Hardtack 7.
You can find pictures and further information on these links. 
Operation Hardtack 28
Operation Hardtack 27
For our episode on Operation Basalt you can go here.
I wrote about Operation Basalt and my attendance at the 80th Anniversary.  Plenty of information about this raid and video of re-enactment and photographs here.
Send us a text
If you use the send us a text option and would like us to contact you please leave a contact method such as an email.
Follow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.

If you want to email in a question send it to [email protected].

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.