16 February 1944

Undated review of 16–29 February 1944 diary — cement and field works

Editorial placement: attached by the reviewed period or earliest possible date; the review itself is undated.

The most urgent construction requirements, especially field works, amounting to 2,500 cubic metres of concrete for all Channel Islands batteries, were submitted to Seventh Army Headquarters and Fortress Engineer Commander XIX in secret command letter 766/44 of 12 February 1944. Particular emphasis was placed on completing at least the work already begun.

The requirements were rejected verbally by the Fortress Engineer Commander and in writing by Seventh Army Headquarters, reference 1637/44 of 13 March 1944: cement supply remained unresolved and the building materials available were sufficient only for the programme of casemated gun positions.

Since completion of the field works is important to combat readiness, the requirements remain in force and are reiterated to the responsible offices at every opportunity.

Roll 2422, scan 0799. Signed Rieve. No issue date visible; the letter of 13 March 1944 cited below establishes that this review was written on or after that date.