As Germany re-armed prior to the Second World War several sidings to military bases (Poitzen, Munster) were built and, as a result, traffic grew appreciably.

Passenger volumes climbed steadily to begin with and the branch contributed significantly to numbers on the Celle–Soltau line.

From 31 May 1965 Deutsche Bundesbahn (DB) services began running to Munster and the OHE station was closed as a consequence.

After World War II still more military facilities were added and tank-loading ramps were built at several stations.

The railway played as special part during the Berlin Blockade in 1948/49 because RAF Fassberg was one of the start points for the airlift.