Hillman strongpoint, Perriers Ridge

As promised a special post just on this fortification. A key defensive position above Sword beach which held out well beyond June 6th and was finally taken by the 1st Battalion Suffolk Regiment.

 

This is one of the buried concrete shelters towards to east of the network of bunkers, trenches and emplacements that made up the overall strongpoint. It extends for 2,500 sq yards. the photo below has a diagram that illustrates what each part of the design was for and how they were connected together - either by trenches or tunnels.

In yesterday's post I showed the 'view' from the top of one of the forward command posts. This post has been restored to show the equipment and living conditions inside.

 

Sleeping quarters

Office!

Radio room

Looking up into the cupola you can just about make out in the photo above showing the entrance to the command post. I think this was an observation point rather than a weapon site.

Some of the 'friends of the suffolk regiment' who maintain the site - still working on opening up other parts for tours.

 

Inside one of the other command bunkers showing the unrestored state!