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 informat...

Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss the complexities of life in Guernsey during the German occupation in October 1943. They delve into the return of the German censor Kurt Goettman, the impact of German officials on local life, and the social conditions faced by the population. The conversation highlights the struggles of the local community, the resistance against the occupation, and the psychological effects of war on both German soldiers and civilians. The episode concludes with re...

Summary In this episode, the hosts discuss the ongoing challenges faced by the islands during the occupation in September 1943. They explore themes of post-war planning, media censorship, social welfare issues, food supply challenges, and the rise of the black market. The conversation highlights the resilience of the local population amidst hardship, the impact of German regulations on daily life, and the growing hope for liberation as rumors circulate. The hosts also touch on community even...

In the midst of World War II, even small islands like Guernsey played a significant role in the larger narrative of conflict and culture. This blog post delves into a recent episode of "Islands at War," where hosts Keith Pengelley and Nick Le Huray explore the complexities of wartime censorship, the lives of local residents, and surprising events that unfolded in August 1943. **Wartime Censorship: The Curious Case of Sonderführer Kurt Goettmann** In August 1943, the departure of Sond...

This conversation explores the experiences of the Channel Islands during the German occupation in World War II, focusing on the third anniversary of the occupation, the struggles faced by the local population, health crises, rumours of deportations, social policies, and acts of resistance. Through diary entries and reflections, the speakers discuss the profound impact of the occupation on daily life, health, and social structures, emphasising the importance of remembering and documentin...

Unfortunately Keith is currently unwell having succumbed to the latest bout of the flu that is doing the rounds. So instead of the scheduled July 1943 episode we have some interviews for you. Thank you to Katie Roger for voicing one of the stories which was received as an email. In this episode of Islands at War, host Nick Le Huray shares personal stories from individuals who experienced evacuation during World War II, focusing on the unique narratives of Mary Jay, Johnny Th...

Summary This episode of 'Islands at War' explores the multifaceted impact of WWII on the Channel Islands, focusing on the German occupation's effects on daily life, community resilience, and cultural shifts. From curfew breakers in Sark to the challenges of food shortages and black market activities, the hosts delve into personal stories and historical insights that illustrate the struggles and adaptations of islanders during this tumultuous period. Takeaways The podcast discusses the ongo...

Summary In this episode, we explore the complex situation in Guernsey during May 1943, focusing on the rationing cuts imposed by the Germans and the resulting controversies. The discussion covers the rationale behind these cuts, the impact of RAF bombing on supplies, and the challenges faced by medical professionals and the Controlling Committee. We also delve into the psychological effects of war on civilians, the differences in rationing between Guernsey and Jersey, and the increased activ...

Nick spoke to James Bulgin about a range of topics in front of a live audience at the Imperial War Museum. James's connection with Guernsey.James's career and how he became the museum's head of public history.Curating the Holocaust Galleries at the museum.Books that he has writtenUpcoming publications aim to shed light on the Holocaust and the Nuremberg Trial. The Channel Islands were the only part of Britain occupied by Nazi Germany.Personal stories and memories are crucial for understa...

This episode delves into the experiences of the Channel Islands during the German occupation in World War II, focusing on the crackdown on radios, the arrests of resistance members, the role of women in wartime labour, rationing issues, and the impact of air raids. We discuss various incidents, including trials, sabotage, and the fate of escaped Frenchmen, while also reflecting on community responses to the occupation and the use of art as propaganda by German soldiers. Also looking at ...

In this episode, we explore the events of March 1943 in the Channel Islands during World War II. The conversation covers various topics including naval actions, the deportation of Jewish women, the impact of electricity rationing, and the emergence of a black market. We also discuss the tragic story of the Ogiers, collaboration among locals, and the mental health struggles faced by the population under occupation. The episode concludes with a tribute to an aircraft crew that lost their lives...

This episode delves into the complex and harrowing history of the Channel Islands during World War II, focusing on the deportations of 1943. The conversation explores the motivations behind these deportations, the key figures involved, and the impact on the local population. War crimes allegations and the outcome. It highlights personal stories of those affected, the resistance movements that emerged, and the broader context of life under occupation. The hosts reflect on the psych...

This conversation explores the personal experiences of Frank Ogier during World War II, focusing on evacuation, life in England, and the impact of war on families and communities. He shares vivid memories of his childhood, the challenges his family faced, and the resilience they demonstrated during difficult times. The discussion highlights the importance of capturing these stories for future generations. Evacuation experiences shaped many childhoods during WWII.Life in England during the war...

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 deporta...

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 America...

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 signif...

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 ...

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 text Follow us on Twitter here or Facebook here. If you want to email in a question send it to occup...

Summary In this conversation, Keith Pengelley talks to Theresa Le Flem about her novels set during and after World War II, focusing on the experiences of characters in Guernsey. They explore the themes of survival, love, and the impact of war on personal relationships. The discussion covers the setting, character development, and the historical context of the stories, as well as the research involved in writing them. Theresa shares insights into Freedom on the Morning Tide, and hints at futu...

This episode we have the stories of two Spitfire Pilots who having been shot down in the Channel Islands end up at Stalag Luft III and one of them takes part in the Great Escape. A Lancaster crash lands in Sark and the crew survive only to be captured and become POWs. The mystery of a German soldier called George Falla, yes you read that correctly a German soldier with a Guernsey name! We talk about the hullabaloo caused when the Irish enquire if any Irish citizens have been deported a...