New information signs have been installed at a WWII bunker in St Ouen, providing a glimpse into the lives of soldiers stationed there during the German occupation. Located along the Five Mile Road, this bunker was originally manned by the German Machine Gun Battalion 16.
The Jersey Fortifications Study Group, responsible for setting up the signs, opens bunkers around Jersey to help locals and visitors connect with the island’s wartime history. Dave Mustow from the group shared insights on the battalion's role: “The bunker, where El Tico stands today, was controlled by the MG Machine Gun Battalion 16, with their first company stationed at Steps Point 43—the name given to the bunker. The battalion also manned other key positions at High Tower (now The Watersplash), St Peter's Barracks, St George’s School, Lamon Mill, and several other locations in the area.”
Visitors can read the signs and tour the bunker, which has been outfitted by the fortifications team to resemble conditions from the WWII era. Mustow also shared a story from the bunker’s commander titled "The Pig in the Minefield." During the occupation, soldiers relied heavily on supplies from St Malo and livestock to sustain both themselves and local civilians. As the war turned, leaving the Channel Islands isolated, Red Cross parcels became crucial for survival. For the German soldiers, rationing intensified, leading some to get creative with food sources.
In one case, soldiers smuggled a live pig into the bunker from a nearby farm. After slaughtering it, they salted and stored the meat in empty ammunition crates, which they buried in a minefield. The next morning, German police, suspicious of the scent, brought a bloodhound to investigate. After questioning the crew, who feigned ignorance, the police left empty-handed, and the soldiers successfully kept their stash.
The new signs, funded by Condor Ferries through its Community Fund, add to the historical narrative at the site. According to Mustow, there may be more updates on the way: "Hopefully next year, we’ll surprise visitors with a machine gun turret!"