BATTLE OF SOMMARÖARNA, PART I

(Hanko Cape in the Second World War, Niilo Lappalainen & From Hanko to Petsamo, Pertti Kilkki) 

23rd of October 1941 

- The island group of Sommaröarna is located on the south side of Bromarv. There are four different islands and these are known with the name of Käringholmen. The two little islands, which were the most southern islands were not occupied by the Finnish troops, but were heavily mined. The two northern islands contained a reinforced 80th Coastal Shock Company, under the command of Lieutenant N. Wirzenius. 

- After the Russians attacked to Stoskär, General Lieutenant Kabanov also decided to check the western islands. A reconnaissance in force was planned to Sommaröarna and its purpose was also to capture prisoners. The 4th Shock Company was assigned to the task. 

- At 2:45 o'clock in the night, Stora Käringholmen, which was the biggest from the two islands occupied by Finns, was hit with a heavy artillery fire after which Russians landed to the island. In the cover of darkness, the Russians landed troops in four places of the island and started to advance into Stora Käringholmen. The situation for the Finns was a nasty one, it was dark, all of the communication lines were cut off, no reserves and firing all around the island. 2nd Lieutenant Axelsson retreated from the island with eight men. There was no official order to pull back, but as communications were cut off the men had no choice, but to try to get away from the island. The Russians also attacked to Lilla Käringholmen which was the second island occupied by Finns. Here the attack was stopped, but the Russians remained in the island.

- The bunker 455 is located right in the Harparskog village, few of the houses can be seen peaking behind the observation cupola, which today just observes daily life of the people.

- Nature has covered the bunker 455 with moss.

- The stove, well and the sink are in perfect condition.

- The floor is a bit damp and water is coming through the ceiling.

- The wooden door is missing from the bunker.