Alderney Homecoming Day is celebrated on the 15th December.
During WWII, the Channel Islands were the only part of the British Territory to be occupied by the Germans.
In June 1940, with only 12 hours’ notice, almost the entire population of Alderney, approx.1500 people, were evacuated due to an impending invasion from German forces. Most evacuees went on the six official evacuation boats sent from Britain. Some people attempted to make their own way off the island but due to the occupation of German forces on nearby Guernsey they were unable to leave and therefore ended up staying on Alderney for the duration of the war. A few Alderney residents also chose to remain on the island.
Those that were evacuated were only allowed to take with them a small bag with personal possessions. They left homes full of furniture and items which were destroyed, used or taken by German troops during the occupation.
Alderney was fortified using forced labour workers. Four camps were built on the island, including one concentration camp – SS Lager Sylt. This was the only concentration camp built on British soil. It is thought over 700 people died on Alderney during the occupation. Over 3200 German troops were stationed there. Life was very harsh for the islanders who endured near starvation due to regular Royal Navy blockades. Towards the end of the war, the Germans were also affected by food shortages.
Alderney was liberated on 16th May 1945, seven days after the liberation of Jersey and Guernsey and eight days after the surrender of the German army. On 20th May, 2332 German prisoners of war were removed from Alderney. 500 Germans were left to clear up the island and make it safe for the evacuees to return.
On 15th December 1945, the islanders returned to Alderney but found their island in ruins. They found their homes had been ripped apart and doors used as firewood! For the next two years, Alderney was run as a communal farm to allow the island to recover and repair itself.
The Flag of Alderney has the red St George’s Cross with Alderney’s coat of arms in the centre. The coat of arms- which first appeared in the 19th century - consists of a lion rampant holding a sprig. The lion has a crowned head.
Alderney – Homecoming Day, is a public holiday in Alderney.
Here at The Flag Shop we have a great range of Alderney flags for sale. As our customer reviews show, we are the most trusted and reliable Flag Seller in the UK, so if you are looking to buy an Alderney flag look no further!
