Islands at War

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 Thomas Boalch, and Val Le Feurve. The episode highlights the chaos and emotional turmoil of wartime decisions, the kindness shown by individuals during the occupation, and the varying experiences of evacuees. Additionally, the episode discusses upcoming community events related to the history of the Channel Islands, encouraging listener engagement and participation.

• The episode features personal stories from evacuees during World War II.
• Mary Jay's unique evacuation experience highlights the chaos of wartime decisions.
• John Thomas Boalch shares his memories of kindness from a German soldier during the occupation.
• Val Le Feuvre recounts her husband's challenging experiences as an evacuee in Glasgow.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of community and shared history in understanding wartime experiences.
• The stories reflect a mix of adventure and hardship faced by evacuees.
• The impact of the war on families and communities is a central theme.

Future episodes will continue to explore the history of the Channel Islands during the war so don't worry July 1943 is coming soon!

Also details of some upcoming events.

Send us Fan Mail

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 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 ongoing impact of WWII on the Channel Islands.
Curfew breakers in Sark highlight the challenges of occupation.
Guernsey's film arrivals reflect censorship and cultural shifts.
Daily life is heavily influenced by the German occupation.
Young entrepreneurs emerge amidst black market activities.
Raids and surveillance are common in Guernsey.
Luxury shops face scrutiny from German authorities.
Jewellery inspections reveal the Germans' interest in valuables.
Food shortages create significant hardship for residents.
Crime related to food scarcity becomes prevalent.

More information and photographs can be found here. 

Explanation of what the Chief Pleas of Sark is can be found here.

Find out more about Sark and visiting this wonderful Island click here.

Send us Fan Mail

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

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.

Send us Fan Mail

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 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 written
• Upcoming 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 understanding the occupation.
• There has been a recent outpouring of memories from the last generation of survivors.
• Resistance in the Channel Islands took many forms, including subtle acts of defiance.
• The strategic importance of the Channel Islands was often misunderstood during the war.
• Liberation narratives differ significantly between the Channel Islands and mainland Britain.
• The impact of living memory on historical narratives is profound and complex.
• There is a growing interest in the history of the Channel Islands in educational contexts.
• Cultural events and documentaries are helping to raise awareness about the occupation. 

Send us Fan Mail

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.

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 RAF air raids and their impact on rationing, a funeral for downed airmen and much more.

• The crackdown on radios was a significant aspect of German control.
• Resistance members faced severe consequences, including trials and harsh sentences.
• Women were called upon to fill labor shortages during the occupation.
• Rationing and food supply issues were critical challenges for civilians.
• Air raids had a profound impact on the islands and their inhabitants.
• The Germans used propaganda to maintain control and suppress dissent.
• Sabotage and resistance activities were met with harsh reprisals.
• The fate of escaped Frenchmen highlighted the dangers of resistance.
• Community responses to occupation varied, with some supporting resistance efforts.
• The legacy of these events continues to be remembered and commemorated.

Pictures we talked about are here

Send us Fan Mail

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, 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 in the vicinity of the islands.

Images we discuss are here.

Send us Fan Mail

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.

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 psychological toll of war, the struggles for resources, and the resilience of the community amidst adversity.

Also mentioned are the appearance on 1 November 2025 at the Imperial War Museum Podcast Live.   Details here IWM Podcast Live | History Podcast Festival at IWM London – 1 Nov

Photographs of people and items we mention during this episode can be found here.

Send us Fan Mail

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.

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 was filled with challenges.
• The impact of bombing on schools and daily life.
• Returning home after the war brought mixed emotions.
• Childhood adventures were often intertwined with wartime experiences.
• Community support was vital during and after the war.
• Bicycles became essential for transportation after the war.
• The war created lasting bonds and memories among families.

Send us Fan Mail

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.

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 Fan Mail

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.

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 Fan Mail

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.