May 23 Guernsey

First time visit to Guernsey, and of course we selected the WW2 tour -- the occupation of Guernsey. Although Guernsey is not really a strategic location, countries have  fought to hold it, France and Britain usually.  Guernsey has been independent, but British aligned since 1066 -- as our guide said, "We chose to be British."

St Peter Port as we enter. 

Fort Hommett. The brick parts are fortifications from the Napoleonic wars, while the concrete is Nazi WW2 extensions. As we traveled through the Atlantic and Channel ports Nazi bunkers always look the same -- dark grey concrete.

Fort Hommett is protecting the bay from invasion.

Guernsey is a beautiful island.

12" naval guns at the southwestern end of the island.

St Peter Port public pool

Our guide says this church/pub combination is in the Guinness Book of World Records for the shortest distance between a church and pub -- 2ft6in from gargoyle to pub.  

Downtown St Peter Port. There was a Marks and Spencers so the British crew members flocked there for food and clothing.

The obelisk marking the end of occupation on May 9, 1945.