Islands at War
A Podcast about the occupation of the Channel Islands by German forces 1940 to 1945. Focusing on personal experiences of those that lived through it using diaries and our own research. Social, practical and military aspects of the occupation of the Channel Islands.
Join Keith Pengelley and Nick Le Huray as they talk you through the occupation month by month. Oh and we drop our own family stories in as well.
We will talk you through the occupation as it happened.
Questions welcome at occupied@gnetradio.com
Islands at War
MAY 1943 - RAF RAIDS, STAND OFF WITH THE GERMANS, DISASTORUS RATIONING CUTS & SHIPPING SUNK
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 activity of the RAF. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of the Channel Islands amidst ongoing struggles.
Takeaways
Rationing cuts were announced in May 1943.
The Germans justified ration cuts by blaming British bombings.
Exemptions for German workers caused public outrage.
Medical assessments indicated severe health risks from rationing.
The Controlling Committee struggled to communicate effectively with the public.
Protests against rationing cuts were largely ignored by the Germans.
The RAF intensified air raids around the Channel Islands.
Morale was boosted by news of Allied victories.
The Guernsey purchasing body faced challenges during an RAF attack.
Financial management during occupation was complex and problematic.
Picture of one of the ships is here.
Follow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.
If you want to email in a question send it to occupied@gnetradio.com. 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.
