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Islands at War

Islands at War

Written by: Islands At War
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About this listen

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

© 2026 Islands at War
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Episodes
  • FEBRUARY 1944 - RADIOS, RUMOURS, POUNDS, PANTO & SPIES!
    Feb 9 2026

    Summary

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the events of February 1944 in the Channel Islands during World War II, exploring themes of optimism amidst ongoing conflict, the experiences of those in German camps, the impact of military orders on civilian life, and the resilience of the local population. They delve into the complexities of banking and financial support, the role of informants, and the cultural efforts to maintain morale through music and community activities. The conversation also touches on the moral dilemmas faced during occupation and the planning for post-war recovery.

    You can find lots of pictures and other information related to this episode here

    Takeaways

    • February 1944 brought a sense of optimism for resolution in the war.
    • Life in German camps varied, with some freedoms allowed.
    • Red Cross parcels were sent back to the Channel Islands.
    • Informants role in the German occupation.
    • Resistance and defiance were present in the Channel Islands.
    • The impact of war affected daily life and morale.
    • Military orders often disrupted civilian life.
    • Cultural activities, like music, helped maintain morale.
    • Financial exploitation by Germans created significant debt.
    • Post-war planning focused on rebuilding and preserving the islands.


    Send 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 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.


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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • JANUARY 1944 - A YEAR OF HOPE, COURT MARTIAL,TUNNELS & TRIBULATIONS
    Jan 26 2026

    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.


    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 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.


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    58 mins
  • DECEMBER 1943 - HEDY UPDATE, £1 RACKET, BLACK MARKET & SCANDAL
    Jan 12 2026

    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 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.


    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 6 mins
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