Devastation and ResilienceWhen war breaks out in May 1940, Neeltje is 19 years old. For her 15th birthday she received a camera. Since then she has been photographing and developing the pictures herself.With the German invasion of Westkapelle on May 18, 1940, she sees the purpose of her photography: to capture and document the events. However, photography is forbidden by the occupying forces. She secretly takes pictures from the skylight in the attic of her parents' house. She also takes pictures in the street, because Neeltje is dressed in costume and can hide her camera under her apron.For laterIn October 1944, now 80 years ago, the dike of Westkapelle was bombed several times, destroying the entire village. Neeltje records everything with her camera.On November 1, 1944, Westkapelle is liberated. The sea water has free rein and a life between low and high tide arises. The hole in the dike must be closed as quickly as possible. Hereby the people of Westkapelle show their resilience. They work very hard to close the hole as quickly as possible. The dike workers and their families went to live temporarily in German bunkers. On October 12, 1945, the time has come, the hole in the dike is closed. Emergency houses are built and the inhabitants can return to their beloved village. The ruins are cleared away and reconstruction can begin.Westkapelle will rise again and everything is recorded by Neeltje Flipse-Roelse, as she herself said, “For later.”

The Netherlands

Devastation and Resilience (Neeltje Flipse-Roelse)

A terrible disaster has struck our village“A terrible disaster struck our village. A tremendous bombardment that lasted 2 ¼ hours. The consequences are terrible.” These are the first lines from a letter Maatje Roelse wrote to her niece Piete on October 26, 1944. Because this letter provides insight into the feelings of and consequences for survivors, some quotes from her letter have been reproduced.On October 3, 1944, the first bombing of Westkapelle took place. The Allies had decided to flood Walcheren in order to weaken the German defenses. Not only the dike, but also most of the buildings were destroyed. The death toll was enormous: 180 people perished.Fleeing to 'safer' places“Yes Piete, a lot I lost. Mother, my sister, brother-in-law, uncle, niece, nephew and a friend. What misery is brought upon the world.” Warnings to leave for “safer” places on the island were underestimated, but the ferocity of the bombardment and the sheer force of the incoming sea water caused a flood of refugees toward the surrounding villages that very night. “Now we are in Oostkapelle on a country estate.... And the consequences. Entire village destroyed, all arable land under sea water. Now you live almost as if in a daze and sometimes do not yet realize what you have lost because you are not at home. But if you start thinking then you can't get out of it.”

Westkapelle's inundation

<h4>Embark on a Journey Through Time: Experience the German Occupation Like Never Before</h4>Calling all military history enthusiasts and anyone captivated by the incredible stories of resilience during the German Occupation! Begin your journey with the turbulent events leading up to May and June 1940—the fateful months when German forces arrived, forever changing life on the Islands. Witness the transformation of this peaceful landscape into a critical stronghold bristling with fortifications, and understand how the occupation left a lasting impact on both the land and its people.<h4>Tour Highlights</h4>This immersive experience takes you to some of the most iconic and significant sites of the German Occupation:<ul><li>Batterie Moltke and MP3, Les Landes, Saint Ouen: Explore this powerful coastal battery and its preserved history.</li><li>The Channel Islands Military Museum: Discover rare artifacts and poignant stories within this rich repository of wartime history.</li><li>Sechsschartentürme, Resistance Nest La Mare Mill, Saint Ouen: Witness these imposing towers of defense.</li><li>Strongpoint Corbiere, La Corbière Point, St. Brelade: Marvel at the intricate engineering and strategic importance of this stronghold.</li><li>Batterie Lothringen, Noirmont Point, Saint Brelade: Walk among the remnants of this formidable battery.</li><li>4.7cm Anti-Tank Gun Casemate, Millbrook, Saint Lawrence: Step into this chilling reminder of wartime ingenuity.</li></ul>All entrance fees to the Military Museum are included, and interior bunker access fees will be collected on the day, should access be available.<h4>Tailored Just for You</h4>As a private tour, this experience is crafted entirely around your schedule and interests. Simply visit our website, select the Full Day tour option, and note “German Bunkers &amp; Fortifications” in the special requests box. Explore available dates on our calendar, or contact us directly for additional options.<h4>More Than a Tour: A Living Experience</h4>At History Alive and Jersey Military Tours, we believe in making history come alive. Each tour is designed to provide a rich, engaging, and flexible experience. Routes and stops may vary, ensuring every tour is tailored to weather conditions, timing, and your interests.<ul><li>Lunch Stops: Full-day tours include breaks at local spots where you can purchase refreshments and food.</li><li>Comfort First: We’ll ensure there’s time for comfort breaks and refreshments throughout your journey.</li></ul>Don’t just read about history—live it. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of the Channel Islands’ German Occupation and uncover the stories that shaped our world.Visit our website today to learn more and book your tour. Your adventure into the past awaits!

Jersey

German Bunkers & Fortifications Tour

The visit offers insight into the bunker's historical significance and military function. Walking through the dark, atmospheric tunnels, you’ll learn about the bunker's role in defending the Atlantic Wall during the war and its connections to the fierce battles of Normandy, fought less than 20 miles away.You will get access to a range of original World War Two artefacts and weapons, where guests can touch and interact with the past. One of the highlights is the opportunity to climb aboard an authentic World War Two GMC truck, sitting on the benches just as soldiers once did.The visit lasts just under one hour, providing a detailed and hands-on experience of this fascinating piece of history. With small group sizes, the experience feels personal and intimate, offering an unforgettable journey through one of Jersey's most important defensive positions of WWII. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, St. Catherine's Bunker offers an authentic and hands-on encounter with the past.<ul><li>Weekends with hourly start times from 10:15&nbsp;</li><li>Small group sizes per opening time slot</li><li>Bookings are only accepted online - Book early to avoid disappointment</li><li>Profits from sales are invested back into the restoration of this site and its upkeep&nbsp;</li></ul>

St. Catherine's Bunker Tours

​As the sun sets, your expert guide will lead you through a carefully curated route that can be fully customized to your interests. Discover the eerie remnants of fortified bunkers, command posts, and underground tunnels that are typically closed to the public. This rare opportunity allows you to delve deep into the stories and secrets of wartime strategies while experiencing the haunting atmosphere of these historical sites under the moonlight.During the tour, clients will also have the opportunity to handle safe, authentic World War II weapons and artefacts. Our tour perfectly complements understanding the history of the D-Day invasion and the battle of Normandy, which unfolded less than 20 miles away.Rated five stars on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="wixui-rich-text__text" href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g186230-d9710211-Reviews-Jersey_War_Tours-Jersey_Channel_Islands.html">TripAdvisor</a>, our tour not only promises a fascinating glimpse into the past but also emphasizes safety and comfort. Each location has been selected for its historical significance and unique character, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique outing, our bunkers at night tour offers an immersive experience that brings history to life in a way few ever get to witness. Join us for an unforgettable night as we uncover the shadows of history together.<ul><li>This private tour is available in the evenings from 18:30 - 21:00, Monday through Friday.</li><li>£120 for up to 4 people visiting multiple bunkers.&nbsp;</li><li>Returning guests can also request a custom tour route to avoid duplication.&nbsp;</li><li>​Tour profits are invested in WW2 research, preservation and education.</li><li>​Bookings are only accepted online - book early to avoid disappointment.</li></ul>Please visit our website for more information about this tour and available dates.

Bunkers at Night Tour

Being so close to the Normandy coast, your guide will aim to help you understand the history of the D-Day invasion and will provide insight into what actually went on in the Island during this time.<h4>Highlights</h4><ul><li>Unique opportunity to take photos of the Fortifications on the North Coast from the sea</li><li>Visit the landing site of the only Allied Commando Raid on Jersey</li><li>Interactive guiding of the North Coast Batteries, Strongpoints and Resistance nest Built during the WW2 Occupation</li><li>Carefully researched stories covering local and Allied WW2 stories from raids, crashes, battles and invasion</li></ul>Please note these are run in partnership with Jersey War Tours and run only a few times in the season. Due to high demand, we recommend booking as early as you can to avoid disappointment.<h4>Dates</h4><ul><li>19 April at 09:30</li><li>04 May at 08:45, 11 May at 09:15, 31 May at 09:15</li><li>15 June at 09:45, 29 June at 09:00</li><li>13 July at 08:45</li><li>09 August at 09:00</li><li>06 September at 09:00</li></ul>Are you interested in a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.jerseyseafaris.com/private-groups">private charter?</a> Please get in contact with our team to organise your ideal adventure.

North Coast War Tour Seafari

PHOTO COLLAGE – LIBERATION musically accompanied by Józef Kropiński: Żal (Regret) composed in the Buchenwald concentration camp in September 1944POEM Sarah Udi: Forderung (Demand) written in the Sömmerda subcamp of Buchenwald concentration camp in February 1945, recited by Johanna GeißlerGREETING Prof. Dr. Jens-Christian Wagner Director of the Buchenwald and Mittelbau-Dora Memorials FoundationMUSICAL INTERLUDE Józef Kropiński: Tak się o ciebie boję (I Am So Afraid For You) composed in the Buchenwald concentration camp in August 1944OPENING ADDRESS Mario Voigt Prime Minister of the Free State of ThuringiaEXCERPTS The Most Beautiful Museum in the World: François Le Lionnais in the Mittelbau-Dora concentration camp written in 1946, presented by Sebastian KowskiMUSICAL INTERLUDE Stanisław Więckowski: Wojna (War) composed in the Buchenwald concentration camp in 1943/44COMMEMORATIVE SPEECH Christian Wulff Former President of the Federal Republic of GermanyMUSICAL FINALE Åses Tod from Edvard Grieg: Peer Gynt, Suite Nr 1, Op. 46, 1875The following musicians of the Staatskapelle Weimar are performing: Barbara Seifert, first violin Astrid Schütte, second violin Almut Bormann, viola Astrid Müller, first cello Joel Blido, second cello Claudio Hernandez, contrabass Stefan Polster, basset horn Arrangement of the musical frame: André KasselThe wreath-laying ceremony will take place at 15:00 on the former roll call square (Appellplatz) of the Buchenwald concentration camp.A live stream of the event will be realised by MDR. We will film and photograph during the event for documentation on our homepage, social media channels, print media and other photo galleries. By participating in the event, you declare your consent to the publication.

Germany

Ceremony of 80th anniversary of liberation

In Jersey, Liberation Day (Jèrriais: Jour d'la Libéthâtion) is celebrated each year on 9 May, to mark the end of the Nazi German Occupation during the Second World War. It is celebrated as Jersey's national day and 2025 marks 80 years of liberation.The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to be occupied during the War, and the conquest of them was viewed by the German occupying forces as a stepping-stone to the full invasion of the rest of Britain.There continues to be a strong desire to keep the memory of Liberation Day alive – to remember those who were killed and those who survived, as well as to recognise the impact Occupation and Liberation has had on Jersey’s present-day community and identity. Importantly, Liberation Day also serves to remind us of our commitment to freedom, peace and inclusivity in our society.<h4>Events &amp; Experiences</h4><ul><li>Traditional festivities | Join us for a historic celebration, where pride and remembrance take center stage. Liberation Square will be the setting for a special States Assembly ahead of a powerful reenactment of Force 135's historic arrival and stirring performances of "Beautiful Jersey" and the National Anthem will uplift hearts, accompanied by the resonant sounds of the Band of the Island of Jersey and La Ronde Concert Band. The ceremonial events culminate with a grand march and motorcade, paving the way for family festivities at Weighbridge Place. Enjoy vibrant local entertainment, delicious refreshments, and a joyful celebration of freedom and unity.</li><li>Liberation Music Festival | To continue the festivities of the Liberation weekend, the Parish of St Helier will host a two-day music festival that will showcase local talent.</li><li>The Liberation Games | Jersey Sport will coordinate the Liberation Games, aimed at building a community spirit around Liberation 80. The games will consist of a variety of sports and activities that will bring together parishes to compete in a series of friendly and accessible games.</li><li>Jersey Week 5 – 9 | A Jersey-wide ‘open house’, encouraging organisations and businesses across the island to open their respective archives to show how both public and private organisations contribute to the Island, providing insight into the history, operation and position of each organisation in Jersey</li><li>Parish parties and activities | Each of the island's 12 parishes has declared that they will be holding different parties and events during the Liberation weekend. Understandably, Connétables will want to conduct their own events to ensure parishioners can also celebrate together away from the larger ‘national’ activities.</li><li>Jersey diaspora | For Jersey people in other countries wishing to take part in the Liberation celebrations, there will be a limited number of celebration packs made available to enable the decoration and theming of parties to be held in other jurisdictions with Jersey and Union flag bunting etc.</li></ul>More details on the momentous occasion will be released closer to the event.

Liberation 80

SPECIAL LIBERATION 80 SEAFARI! Your guide will aim to help you understand the history of the D-Day invasion and will provide insight into what actually went on in the Island during this time. You will honestly be shocked at what the Third Reich was able to create with slave labour, captured weapons &amp; lots of concrete!<h3>Highlights&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Unique opportunity to take photos of the Fortifications &amp; significant landmarks on the South Coast from the sea</li><li>Learn all about the arrival of the&nbsp;‘tommies’&nbsp;on Liberation Day</li><li>Interactive guiding of the South Coast&nbsp;Batteries, Strongpoints and Resistance nest built during the WW2 Occupation&nbsp;</li><li>Hear fascinating and carefully researched stories about the raids, crashes, battles and invasion throughout the occupation</li></ul>Please note these are run in partnership with Jersey War Tours and run only a few times in the season. Dates to be released at the beginning of the season.Please contact us if&nbsp;interested in a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.jerseyseafaris.com/private-groups">private charter?</a>

South Coast Liberation Seafari

Discover History Like Never Before at the Channel Islands Military Museum!Step into the past and uncover the incredible stories of courage, resilience, and survival at the Channel Islands Military Museum in Jersey! Housed in a beautifully preserved German bunker from WWII, this one-of-a-kind museum offers an immersive experience that brings history to life.Explore Authentic Artifacts | Get up close and personal with rare memorabilia, from uniforms and weapons to personal diaries and photographs. Each item tells a story of life during wartime, shedding light on both soldiers and civilians.Experience the Occupation Era | Jersey was the only part of the British Isles to be occupied by German forces during WWII. Walk through the museum’s evocative displays to feel what it was like to live through this pivotal moment in history.Uncover Hidden Stories | Discover untold tales of bravery, ingenuity, and resistance. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious, the museum offers fascinating insights that will stay with you long after your visit.Step Inside a Genuine WWII Bunker | Not just a museum—this is a piece of history itself! Experience the atmosphere of an authentic German bunker, perfectly preserved to give you a glimpse into the past.Perfect for All Ages | Whether you're on a family trip, a school excursion, or an individual adventure, the Channel Islands Military Museum is an unforgettable journey for everyone.Plan Your Visit Today! 📍 Location: St. Ouen’s Bay, Jersey 🕒 Open: January to April = 10am - 1pm on Sundays | April to October = 10am - 5pm daily 🎟️ Tickets: Affordable prices for individuals, families, and groupsDon’t miss the chance to step back in time and experience history like never before. Visit the Channel Islands Military Museum—where every artifact, every story, and every wall whispers the legacy of those who lived through history.

Channel Island Military Museum

<h4>Part 1: Smuggling Reenactment &amp; Procession (26 April, 1-4pm)</h4>Feel the pulse of history as a dramatic boat-smuggling reenactment unfolds. Join the procession from Norman’s Warehouse to Gorey Pier, following a horse-drawn cart symbolizing wartime escapes. Along the way, musical performances will bring the story to life, with stops at Georgetown, Grouville Church, and Gorey Church.After D-Day, brave Jersey men risked their lives to escape Nazi-occupied Jersey for France. Relive this compelling history as musicians and reenactors tell their story through song and procession, blending heritage and artistry for an unforgettable afternoon.<hr><h4>Part 2: Granville RIB Adventure &amp; Concert (17 May, 8:30am–1:30pm)</h4>Recreate the daring escape from Jersey to France aboard a high-speed RIB departing Gorey at 8:30am. Cross the Channel to the beautiful port of Granville, where you’ll explore the historic town and attend a stirring event at Notre-Dame de Granville (11:30am–12:15pm). Through dramatic readings and live music, the stories of escapees come vividly to life.Return to Jersey by 1:30pm, but the adventure doesn’t end there! Join us for Part 3, an evening concert at Gouray Church (6pm) where a renowned string quartet will perform a captivating program inspired by the seas.<hr><h4>Part 3: The Gorey Story &amp; Boat Launch (17 May, 6–7:30pm)</h4>End your journey with an emotionally charged concert at Gouray Church featuring acclaimed violinist Harriet Mackenzie, violist Dorothea Vogel, and cellist Urška Horvat. Immerse yourself in hauntingly beautiful music inspired by the courage of those who fled Jersey by boat between 1944-1945.As night falls, witness the ceremonial launch of the escape boat at Gorey Harbour (7:30pm), a symbolic tribute to the spirit of resilience and hope that defined this pivotal time in history.<hr>✨ Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime journey into history, brought to life with music, adventure, and storytelling.📅 For Tickets: Call 01534 761767 or visit <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.musicjersey.com">www.musicjersey.com</a>.

Escape to France: A Three-part Experience

Sport was in het concentratiekamp vaak een manier om discipline af te dwingen en om te straffen. Bij deze vorm van sport, later pseudosport genoemd, dwongen de nazi’s de gevangenen om uitputtende oefeningen te doen in combinatie met drillen en zingen.Maar sport had ook een tegenovergestelde invulling in het kamp. De gevangenen speelden sporten om te ontsnappen aan de gruwelijke realiteit en om de tijd te doden na lange dagen van dwangarbeid.Onder de gevangenen bevonden zich ook vooroorlogse sporters; Olympiërs en nationale kampioenen die records vestigden voordat ze werden gedeporteerd. Hun dromen werden abrupt afgenomen.‘Sport en sporters in KL Auschwitz’ onthult deze tragische realiteit, maar benadrukt ook de ongelooflijke kracht, creativiteit en het doorzettingsvermogen van de gedeporteerden. Brieven, foto’s en getuigenissen vertellen de indrukwekkende verhalen van sport en sporters in het Duitse nazi-concentratie- en vernietigingskamp Auschwitz.De tentoonstelling benadrukt dat sport niet alleen gaat over fysieke kracht, maar ook over innerlijke kracht en doorzettingsvermogen. De verhalen over sport en sporters in extreme omstandigheden weten te raken en te inspireren.

Devastation and Resilience (Neeltje Flipse-Roelse)

Westkapelle's inundation

German Bunkers & Fortifications Tour

Visites du bunker Sainte-Catherine

Bunkers at Night Tour

Tour de Guerre sur la Côte Nord Seafari

Ceremony of 80th anniversary of liberation

Libération 80

Côte Sud Libération Spéciale 80 Seafari

Le Musée Militaire des îles Anglo-Normandes

Évadez-vous en France : Une Expérience en Trois Parties

Tijdelijke tentoonstelling: ‘Sport en sporters in KL Auschwitz’

Inscrivez votre événement sur Europe Remembers

date

Pays

Type d'événement

Devastation and Resilience (Neeltje Flipse-Roelse)

Westkapelle's inundation

German Bunkers & Fortifications Tour

Visites du bunker Sainte-Catherine

Bunkers at Night Tour

Tour de Guerre sur la Côte Nord Seafari

Ceremony of 80th anniversary of liberation

Libération 80

Côte Sud Libération Spéciale 80 Seafari

Le Musée Militaire des îles Anglo-Normandes

Évadez-vous en France : Une Expérience en Trois Parties

Tijdelijke tentoonstelling: ‘Sport en sporters in KL Auschwitz’

Inscrivez votre événement sur Europe Remembers