By MARK LAMERTON writing about the new edition of his book on ‘Operation Nestegg: the planning, re-occupation, re-organisation and rehabilitation of the Channel Islands, September 1943 – August 1945‘
My interest in the Liberation of the Channel Islands began in 1994, when I was living in South Wales and planning to return to Jersey for the 50th Anniversary of the Liberation in 1995, and realised that I didn’t know much about this important period of Channel Island history. My interest soon developed into a long-term research project of Force 135 and Operation ‘Nestegg’ from September 1943 to August 1945.
9 May 2020 marked the 75th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Channel Islands from five long years of German Occupation, July 1940 – May 1945. Fortunately for Force 135 of the British Liberation Army and the Islanders, in 1945 there was no opposition from the 26,000 strong German garrison.
Since my last publication in 2000, Liberated by Force 135, I have continued my research, not only adding new information to my original manuscript, but also completed additional chapters covering the period between June and August 1945.
The aim was to publish my research in time for the 75th Anniversary of the Liberation, which describes the planning of Operation ‘Nestegg’, training and objectives of Force 135, reoccupation, reorganisation and rehabilitation of the Channel Islands between September 1943 and 31 August 1945.
My first publication, which focused on September 1943 to 30 May 1945, received good reviews and was described as the ‘definitive history of the Liberation of the Channel Islands’. No other in-depth publication specifically on the Liberation was available prior to my earlier book or has been produced since. The revised and expanded publication supersedes my previous book as the definitive history.
The second publication includes a bibliography at the end of each chapter giving details and references of the documents used for ease of access by the reader. The source of images used to accompany the text is also acknowledged including the reference.
The project is self-funded and published, not a profit making venture, and therefore I hope to recover the cost of having the book printed, while keeping the retail price affordable. It is a labour of love and the reward is to see my 26 years of research in print. The print run is limited to 500 two-volume book sets, with 250 sets in Liberation 75 commemorative numbered slip cases.
Over the years, I have met a plethora of Force 135 veterans, their relatives, and those who experienced 9 May 1945 first-hand. Other historians, military enthusiasts, students and inquisitive visitors have also been invaluable to his research. This work has been 26 years in the making.
This edition is limited to 500 copies and comes in a two volume set; 250 in a numbered limited edition 75th Anniversary special commemorative slip case (£48.00) and 250 loose (£39.00). Each volume contains approximately 600 pages and is profusely illustrated throughout. Every chapter has an extensive reference section, images are referenced for ease of obtaining copies, and appendices and index are included in Volume II.
I feel this publication is a ‘must have’ for those with a passion for this unique period of Channel Island history and a souvenir of Liberation 75. I hope those reading this publication enjoy it as much as I have researching it over the years.
The importance of Liberation Day must never be forgotten so that 9 May is kept as Jersey’s and Guernsey’s special day for future generations to enjoy their freedom; a day of joyous celebration and peaceful reflection.
For those wishing to order a book set please contact Mark Lamerton.
Tel: 07797 838041
Email: liberationlamerton@gmail.com
Website: www.force135.je
