Liberation Day

Liberation Day History

Liberation Day is observed to commemorate the liberation from foreign occupation or oppressive rule. The significance of this day lies in remembering the sacrifices made by countless individuals during times of conflict, as well as honouring the resilience and strength of the nation. The exact date of the celebration varies from country to country, but the common theme is the remembrance of national struggle and the appreciation of regained freedom and sovereignty.

In the United Kingdom, Liberation Day holds particular importance for the Channel Islands, which were occupied by German forces during World War II. The British government had demilitarised the islands in June 1940, leading to their swift occupation by Nazi Germany. The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to be occupied during the war, and they remained under German control until their liberation on May 9, 1945. The two largest islands, Guernsey and Jersey, as well as the smaller islands of Alderney and Sark, endured years of hardship and oppression, which had profound effects on the lives of the islanders.

In the United Kingdom, particularly the Channel Islands, Liberation Day is marked by various events and observances. These can include parades, re-enactments, educational talks, and other activities that honour the sacrifices made during the occupation. On this day, islanders also celebrate their resilience and freedom, as well as the relationships forged between the British, French, and other Allied forces that contributed to the eventual liberation. The annual celebration takes place on May 9th.

Liberation Day Facts

• During WWII, the Channel Islands were the only part of the Britain Isles to be occupied by German forces.
• In the 1940s, thousands of slave workers were forced by the Germans to build bunkers, anti-tank walls, railway systems, and tunnels on the island of Jersey. According to jersey.com, Hitler wanted to create a defensible Atlantic Wall using the island of Jersey. Now known as the Jersey War Tunnels, these tunnels continue to tell the story of German occupation and the hardships inhabitants faced.
• The second-in-command for the German Guernsey General Siegfried Heine German signed the British’s instrument of surrender at 7.15 am on 9 May. This surrender was offered on behalf of the German Command of the Channel Islands. Immediately after, all German flags and ensigns were lowered.
• Evidence suggests that the German authorities deported hundreds of Jews to concentration camps, where most perished. Alderney, one of the Channel Islands, played a role during the Holocaust as it was home to four labor camps and one concentration camp, collectively known as 'Lager Sylt'.
• The German invasion, dubbed Operation Green Arrow (Grünpfeil), was executed without resistance as the islanders were instructed to treat the Germans as 'unarmed civilians.' The easy capture of the Channel Islands provided the Germans with a propaganda victory.
• Prior to the German occupation, the British government decided to demilitarize the islands, deeming them indefensible. As a result, all military personnel were withdrawn, leaving a small number of police and local government officials in charge.

In the News and Trending for Liberation Day

Liberation Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Take a history tour of Jersey and learn more about the history and heritage of the iconic island.
• Visit the Jersey War Tunnels in St. Lawrence. They tell a story of what life was like for inhabitants during occupation.
• Watch the historic liberation of the Channel Islands.
• Many museums and historical institutions offer virtual exhibitions related to World War II and the UK's liberation. Explore these online exhibitions to learn more about the wartime experiences and the significance of VE Day.
• Take a moment to remember and honor the sacrifices made during World War II. Share gratitude for the freedom gained and reflect on the importance of unity and peace in the world today.