Mmmm ! I think there may be a difference between Oystering on the East and Souh Coasts of the UK 1939-45 and on the East Coast of the US of A 1941 -45.

Firstly UK oysters, unless farmed, are dredged, rather than picked, they require a flowing tide to breed and feed. The flats at the mouth of the Swale and Colne, and Fal were defended with obstructions and mines as an anti invasion precaution, and the beaches mined, and obstructed. Fishing boats etc. of all sizes were requisitioned for military use, and where not requisitioned were restricted on where they could fish. A metal Oyster dredge in close proximaty to a Magnetic Mine would not improve your life expectancy.

To this day it is still common for a Trawler to bring home high explosives in her nets. The resultant disposal can be quite spectacular.

In Cheasapeake Bay (US) I understand that Oysters were/are dredged.

I believe there are some species of Oyster that grow between the high and low water marks - Could this be the difference, or are we confusing Oysters with Clams and other shellfish ?

Just a thought

Gareth