Introduction
The existence of a replica “Atlantic Wall” on the Sheriffmuir Hills above Dunblane seems to have remained something of a secret for over 70 years. It has been recorded and listed as an historic monument, however, the inhabitants of the Scottish town still seem to know very little about it.
Over ten years ago (c2005) Dunblane Museum heard of local man who had, in 1943, been involved with the construction of the wall at Sheriffmuir.
In August 2012 Gordon Drew sent us a letter about his time in Dunblane. He apologises that his memory is not as clear as it was:
“49th Division came to Scotland in July 1943 for training in its role of assault division for the Normandy landings. The various units of its infantry, artillery, engineers, etc were located in all areas across the country from Ayrshire to Inverness, and moved around training sites such as Rothesay, Tighnabruach, Inverary, Dunblane. In late 1943, I spent 3 weeks in Dunblane with my platoon from 756 Field Coy Royal Engineers.”