D-Day Museum and Southsea Castle

The investigation was both humbling and fascinating. Being able to be close to history through the museums collection of D-Day uniforms, maps, provisions, sets and information was thought provoking and very touching. Dday changed many people’s lives forever and of course changed history. Investigating this historic event was very interesting and made me feel closer to the event and understand the huge sacrifice of the D-Day soldiers.

Andrew Whitmarsh the D-Days head historian knew his collection well and allowed me access to some very interesting artefacts including a survival pack with chocolate untouched! Another unusual contribution was a Nazi wooden sign with ‘Minen’ (German for mines) painted on it, it was taken back as a souvenir from Juno beach.

When I first arrived I recognized the army uniforms as I had studied them as a child in my Polish Grandfathers photograph collection. He was an amateur photographer and had taken pictures of his fellow troops whist training up for D-Day, some of them may have been taken later on in France. The Polish troops had to continue through France the next 12 months after their landing.

We were later led out by Andrew to Southsea Castle to continue my investigation into a different part of history. Samples were taken from the cannons and walls. The view from the castle was magnificent with full sunshine. The Solent was clear and I could see the Isle of Wight and Spitbank Fort appeared closer. (Another one of my forensic investigations locations.)

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