12 June 1941

12 June 1941 Organization Branch reply on garrison establishments and equipment

[Scan 1209.jpg] Organization Branch II no. 1855/41, top secret. Headquarters, 12 June 1941. First of two copies. Subject: defensive readiness of the Channel Islands. To Operations Branch, first copy. Received 13 June.

On item 1: the formation order for the Commander of the British Channel Islands at the proposed strength has meanwhile been issued. Item 2: Machine-Gun Battalion 16 has been placed on an authorized establishment as a permanently assigned island battalion. Item 3: delivery of light and heavy mortars has been initiated with the Chief of Army Armaments and Commander of the Replacement Army. Item 4: Commander-in-Chief West must arrange reinforcement of the captured-gun batteries. A corresponding increase in establishment is envisaged; Organization Branch is preparing the necessary directive.

Item 5: Army antiaircraft units could currently be supplied only from existing Army troops. Item 6: Army assault and motor boats are unsuitable because they do not withstand seawater. A boat could be assigned only by the Navy. Item 7: Operations Branch is requested, if appropriate, to arrange the necessary action with the Luftwaffe Commander-in-Chief. By order [signature unclear].

German Army High Command records, T-78 Roll 317. Supplied English translation T78_Roll_317_English_Translation.docx. Source images: 1209.jpg.