80th Anniversary of Liberation

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Guernsey’s Wartime Story

“The illusion that the Bailiwick of Guernsey… was a peaceful harbour of refuge from the ravages of war was rudely shattered during the summer of 1940 when the victorious German army cut through France like a hot knife through butter…In all, 23,000 people (over half the population of Guernsey) were thus evacuated to the United Kingdom.”

History of the Bailiwick of Guernsey by L. James Marr

The Channel Islands hold a unique place in British history as the only part of the British Isles occupied during the Second World War. German forces arrived in Guernsey on 30th June 1940 and remained for five years until Liberation Day on 9th May 1945. The remnants of this era are still visible today, with imposing fortifications along the coastline and museums preserving the legacy of this extraordinary period.

2025 is the 80th anniversary of Liberation Day in Guernsey, commemorating the island’s freedom from German Occupation.

Following months of preparations, a day of commemoration and community celebration takes place on 9 May 2025. 

The morning of Liberation Day is traditionally one of commemoration. The annual Parade led by The Band of HM Royal Marines, Scotland will march along the seafront. The Parade will include contingents from the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment, HMS Daring and ‘Guernsey’s Own’ 201 Squadron alongside the Chelsea Pensioners, Ghurkas, local uniformed youth organisations and a contingent of local veterans.

St Peter Port will also host a Heritage Trail featuring a series of Occupation and Liberation themed exhibitions and displays including the George Crossan Gallery, Island Archives, the Guilles Alles Library, The Royal Court, The Priaulx Library and Guernsey Museum at Candie.

Guernsey Post is proud to issue stamps marking this poignant milestone, which depict articles across the timeframe of the Occupation in 1940 to the Liberation and Recovery of the island in 1945.

With special thanks to Guernsey Museums for its assistance, access to its research and images for the items held in its collections.

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