Homecoming Day, Alderney - 15th of December

Flag of Alderney

Homecoming Day, Alderney - 15th of December

During World War II the Channel Islands, British dependency where not defended and as such invaded and taken occupied by the German forces.  Before this happened the British government sent word suggesting that the population of the islands evacuate, of the islands only Alderney took this advise to heart.  There where only six people left on the island when the occupation occurred.  At the end of the war the population was not returned until December 15th so this became their national holiday unlike the other Channel Islands which mark the end of occupation.

A side note on another Channel Island, Sark has just held it's first democratic election this month.  Until now it has been a feudal system, but they will now have an elected house represent the population.

Links:
Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occupation_of_the_Channel_Islands#Legacy

Additional: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/country/6/public_holidays/Europe/Alderney.html