Several national newspapers have today (Monday) reported on the revelation that during WWII, Adolf Hitler was very keen to invade the Isle of Wight.
According to an analysis of military records, Hitler felt taking control of the Island would have provided a perfect launch pad from which to then invade mainland Britain.
The information has come to light in a new book by military historian, Dr Robert Forczyk.
Hitler kept bringing up the idea
Dr Forczyk said,
“Throughout the planning process we know Hitler kept bringing up the idea and it was incorporated into the Fuhrer Directive No. 16.
“He later said it was a mistake to let his Navy talk him out of the plan.”
Dr Forczyk’s book, We March Against England, explores the Third Reich’s plan to occupy the mainland.
Airfield for Luftwaffe
Dr Forczyk went on to say,
“Holding the Isle of Wight offered considerable advantages that could have increased the feasibility of Operation Sea Lion.
“First, German artillery deployed on the north side of the Isle of Wight could shell the mainland across the Solent and force the Royal Navy to withdraw its cruiser-destroyer forces from the naval base at Portsmouth.
“Second, capture of the Island would provide the Luftwaffe with four civilian airfields that were much closer to England, thereby alleviating the problems caused by the limited range of the Bf-109 fighter and providing an emergency landing site for damaged aircraft.”
Hitler’s Downfall
Of course, Hitler’s links to the Isle of Wight is something already well-known by those who watch YouTube.
This video surfaced back in 2011 when Wightlink announced they would be charging £1 for cars to use the pier.
Followers of the brilliant pranksters, Isle of Wight Can Depress, might remember another version, but you’ll have to do you own search for that one.
Thanks to all the readers who shared this with OnTheWight.
Source: Daily Mail
