Sunday, August 18th, 2024
Strongpoint Corbiere Big Bunker Open Day!
Strongpoint Corbiere, St Brelade
Details
The Channel Islands Occupation Society are delighted to open up not one, but four of the unique bunkers at Strongpoint Corbiere for this extra special open day! Explore the restored K2 Jagerstand casemate, the ever-popular M19 mortar bunker and interconnected 6-Sch machine gun bunker, as well as the newly renovated and never before publicly seen Personnel Shelter with a working periscope. Enjoy incredible displays of Second World War military vehicles and munitions, kit and uniform, and say hello to the liberating Force 135 soldiers!Constructed in 1942, the M19 bunker is uniquely connected to a neighbouring 6-loopholed heavy machine gun turret bunker by an impressive underground corridor, forming the main hub for both the Strongpoint's telephone and radio communications. The complex has been restored to a high standard, and thanks to the post war return of its wartime commander, Engelbert Hoppe, tells the story of the crew who actually manned the complex and what they got up to during the last year of the Occupation.There is also information on the forced labourers who constructed the site and interactions between the soldiers with nearby civilians as well, as an escape attempt which ended in failure on the causeway to the lighthouse in September 1944. The sites gives a ‘working atmosphere’ feel to the visitor and you are allowed to touch and interact with some of the exhibits!Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to guide you and give details of the fortifications along with an audio commentary explaining the original crew.For more information about our Society or if you're interested in becoming a member, please visit our Facebook page: CIOS Jersey