HMS Belfast
Walking onto the ship, there was no way to guess the importance or size of the Belfast. On an hour and a half trip into the innermost sections of the boat, we saw the engine rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, dentists, two stores, dining rooms, and so much more. Below is a slideshow of the tour. There were interactive displays throughout which aren’t documented, but they informed us on which wars the Belfast took part in, members of the crew, leaders in command, and their part in the war effort.
The smell was a little overwhelming at times, but there was a sense of deep pride, immense history, tragic loss, and strong accomplishment. Seeing how the men lived and worked in such close quarters under intense conditions brought a new perspective. Seeing one of the ships that we have read and learned about in person really brought the Atlantic war to life. A real protector of the seas, saving merchant ships and war ships alike, it provided safety and guard from German U-Boats under the sea.
The western front is often focused upon as the most important in the war. I disagree. The wars fought in the water were equally important.
The smell was a little overwhelming at times, but there was a sense of deep pride, immense history, tragic loss, and strong accomplishment. Seeing how the men lived and worked in such close quarters under intense conditions brought a new perspective. Seeing one of the ships that we have read and learned about in person really brought the Atlantic war to life. A real protector of the seas, saving merchant ships and war ships alike, it provided safety and guard from German U-Boats under the sea.
The western front is often focused upon as the most important in the war. I disagree. The wars fought in the water were equally important.
Winston Churchill war rooms
One of my favorite parts of the tour, so far, were the War Rooms. I don’t think anyone realized the sheer size of the underground war operations. Reading about the English side of the war, it sometimes seemed as though Churchill made the decisions alone. Looking at the room where the War Cabinet met, it was obvious that they were much closer to democracy and free speech (although Churchill would pretend he couldn’t hear the opposition at times) than monarchy.
The War Rooms separated off into the Churchill museum where you walk through Churchill’s life in five segments. Through interactive displays and a headset, the tour bought knowledge on everything from his childhood and upbringing to his final moments in life.
Below is a slide show documenting the War Rooms and some of Churchill’s quotes.
As a side note on London, I don’t think they are obsessed with their Royals like Americans are. They also don’t know who Miley Cyrus is. These things make me sad.
The War Rooms separated off into the Churchill museum where you walk through Churchill’s life in five segments. Through interactive displays and a headset, the tour bought knowledge on everything from his childhood and upbringing to his final moments in life.
Below is a slide show documenting the War Rooms and some of Churchill’s quotes.
As a side note on London, I don’t think they are obsessed with their Royals like Americans are. They also don’t know who Miley Cyrus is. These things make me sad.