19th October 1934
Under-defended Jersey mulls conscription
Six years before it was invaded and occupied during the Second World War, Jersey’s authorities recognised that the island was dangerously under-defended.
As reported in the Belfast Telegraph, “The Jersey States Defence of Island Committee has been considering a report by a competent military authority that the island’s militia is at present ineffective. Drastic alterations are urged. It is suggested that the island should return to conscription or else pay Britain for the services of a battalion.”
Jersey had maintained its own voluntary militia since the British government stopped funding a professional force on the island in 1928.
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Other events that occured in October
Footballer Greame Le Saux is born
- Jersey-born Le Saux’s first professional signing was for London club Chelsea, for whom he played his first match aged 21. He stayed for four seasons, during which he made 90 appearances, scoring eight league goals.
- Read more…
Occupation resister Louisa Gould is born
- Louisa Gould gave refuge to an escaped Russian slave during the occupation of Jersey but was exposed to authorities and tried.
- Read more…
The Channel Islands’ oldest inhabitant dies
- The oldest inhabitant of the Channel Islands died in St Helier at the age of 104.
- Read more…
Jersey holds its first modern marathon
- Jersey held its first modern marathon in 2006 when 300 long-distance runners set off on a route that took them across the island.
- Read more…
