Pillbox, Brisley Commom

This pillbox is a Type 22 (a regular hexagon with embrasures on five sides and an entrance on the sixth) and is typical of what was known as a ‘bullet proof’ type with an internal ricochet wall. The occupants would have been infantrymen. The pillbox has lost its original brick shuttering, but this does reveal some of the details of construction. The poor quality of the concrete is readily apparent, which in all likelihood reflects the haste with which it was built during the invasion crisis of 1940. The brick base can clearly be seen, as can the first stage of concreting, which was up to the level of the embrasures. The ‘second lift’ can also be seen, which was up to the level immediately below the roof.

worldwar2heritage