#Fortification
Dishoek Bunker Complex
The bunkers at Dishoek played a crucial role during the Battle of the Scheldt in 1944. After the fall of Antwerp, Hitler called the island Walcheren “Festung”. Till the last drop of blood German troops had to defend the island. The Allied forces launched successful attacks from all sites. Finally the German troops could finally only defend the Westerschelde from the bunker complex near Dishoek. During the subsequent bombings and shellings many people died and a British commando unit experienced one of the bloodiest battles in its history.
As a little boy John Daane (Middelburg, 1964) used to play in the Dishoek dunes. The bunker complex stole John’s heart. He has removed some 100,000 kilos of debris from the bunkers, refurbished them, demolished extensions, installed electricity and increased safety. Thanks to a countless number of hours of work and a lot of perseverance, he has restored this special piece of history to its original state and prepared for viewing.
During tours the hospital and ammunition bunkers can now be visited. The complex exposes the drama of the war and the way ordinary soldiers had to live. With special attention for human stories and anecdotes from both sides.
Visit the Zeeuwse Ankers website (Zeeland Anchors) for comprehensive information, personal stories and videos about the Battle of the Scheldt.