Shetland Defence Battalion.

With the outbreak of war in 1939, Shetland was poorly defended, and the garrison in the islands had to be increased. 

 

The requirement for more troops in the islands was further reinforced following the invasion of Norway in April 1940, and the increased threat of landings, either by sea or air.

An Operation Order from Shetland Defences War Diary, dated 24th May 1940, reinforces the concern at this time:-

 

INFORMATION.

ENEMY.

 

(a) The enemy may attempt sea landings at many points in SHETLAND, the most likely being LERWICK, SCALLOWAY AND VOE in that order of priority. These landings may be preceded by navy bombing attacks at the selected landing places and accompanied by landings of airborne troops either by means of actual landings or by parachutists.

An attack by Torpedo Motor Boats on warships and shipping in the harbours of Lerwick and Scalloway must also be expected.

 

(b) Airborne troops may be landed in British uniform.
(c) Airborne troops have generally been landed at dusk or at dawn.
(d) The possibility of the use of gas cannot be ignored.[1]

—

The  Shetland army defence during World War Two consisted of a Headquarters and four Companies. Headquarters was Shetland National Defence Company and others from 7th Black Watch, 11th Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, 12th Highland Light Infantry and 11th Cameronians…

 

After Dunkirk, more troops arrived, including the Seaforth Highlanders in September 1940, to be followed by the 9th Green Howards in March 1941. This brought the garrison to Brigade strength, plus Shetland Defence Battalion and Machine Gun Company.[2]

Other elements of the Shetland defences included various Companies of Pioneer Corps, Road Construction Company, Royal Army Service Corps and Royal Army Ordnance Corps, and more, which were also based throughout the islands [3]

 

Alongside the infantry personnel, the defence of the islands also incorporated various coastal defences and the arrival of anti-aircraft batteries, alongside the supporting localised Home Guard detachments.  

 

Guarding key local positions of importance was vital, including “Sumforce” which protected the Royal Air Force base at Sumburgh via War Hill, Sumburgh Head and the airfield.  Other key areas defended included Lerwick, Scalloway, and Graven.[4]

More to follow in the future about the Shetland defence during both wars. Please just message for information at any time.  

 

Sources:-

[1]WO 166 2051. Shetland Defences.

[2] D50.2.5.

[3] D50.1917.

[4] D50.11.