Birger Eriksen

Birger Eriksen, born on November seventeenth, eighteen seventy-five, was a distinguished Norwegian military officer and politician. He rose to prominence during a critical moment in history when Norway faced the threat of invasion by Nazi Germany.

As the commander of Oscarsborg Fortress, Eriksen played a pivotal role in the defense of Norway during the early hours of April ninth, nineteen forty. His decisive actions were instrumental in halting the first wave of Gruppe 5 of the German invasion force outside Oslo.

Eriksen's legacy is marked by his courageous decision to order the fortress under his command to open fire on the advancing forces of Operation Weserübung. This bold move resulted in the sinking of the heavy cruiser Blücher, weighing sixteen thousand tons, and earned him lasting recognition as a national hero.