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
SEPTEMBER 1943 - THE TIDE IS TURNING, MORALE AND A TRAGIC DEATH
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 events and the social dynamics that emerge in response to the occupation, providing a comprehensive overview of life in the islands during this tumultuous period.
Takeaways
- Post-war planning was a significant focus for local government in September 1943.
- Media communication during the occupation was heavily restricted, affecting public sentiment.
- Children's allowances were a contentious issue, influenced by German regulations.
- Food supply challenges led to increased black market activity and social unrest.
- Health concerns were exacerbated by shortages of vaccines and medical supplies.
- Despite hardship, acts of generosity were noted among the local population.
- Censorship efforts by the Germans aimed to control information and suppress dissent.
- Fishing regulations were tightened in response to escape attempts by locals.
- Civilian casualties highlighted the dangers of occupation and German indifference.
- Military movements indicated a shift in German strategy and local morale.
- The black market thrived as residents sought to cope with shortages.
- Cultural resistance emerged as locals found ways to mock and undermine German authority.
- Rumours of liberation circulated, fostering hope among the population.
- Community events reflected the resilience and social dynamics of the occupied islands.
Follow us on Twitter here or Facebook here.
If you want to email in a question send it to occupied@gnetradio.com.
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.
