Milorg resistance fighters marching after the handover of Akershus Fortress to the resistance movement by the Germans in May 1945.

The Norwegian Milorg, short for “Militær Organisasjon” (Military Organization), was the main resistance movement in Norway during World War II. Formed in response to the German occupation of Norway in April 1940, Milorg played a crucial role in the country’s fight against Nazi control.

Following the German invasion of Norway, various resistance groups emerged, but they were initially uncoordinated. In May 1941, Milorg was established to unify these efforts under a single organization. Initially, Milorg operated independently of the British Special Operations Executive (SOE), which led to some friction and deadly incidents. However, by the end of 1942, Milorg and SOE had coordinated their efforts, significantly enhancing the effectiveness of the resistance.

Milorg obtained supplies and resources for their missions through a combination of local efforts and support from the Allies, particularly the SOE. Many Norwegian civilians supported Milorg by providing food, shelter, and other essential supplies, which were crucial for the survival and operation of resistance members. Milorg operatives often had to improvise with whatever resources they could find, repurposing civilian items for military use and creating makeshift weapons and tools.

The SOE and other Allied forces conducted airdrops to deliver weapons, explosives, radios, and other essential supplies to Milorg. These airdrops were often coordinated through Milorg’s network of radio stations. Additionally, the SOE provided specialized training and equipment to Milorg operatives, including training in sabotage, espionage, and guerrilla warfare techniques.

Milorg established secret smuggling routes to transport supplies and personnel, often leading to neutral Sweden, where they could obtain additional resources and support. To avoid detection by German forces, Milorg operatives used various methods to conceal their activities, such as hiding supplies in remote locations and using coded messages to communicate.

Collaboration was also key to Milorg’s success. They worked closely with other resistance groups and the Norwegian government in exile to coordinate efforts and ensure a steady flow of supplies and resources. These methods allowed Milorg to sustain their operations and carry out effective resistance activities against the German occupation.

Operations and Activities

Milorg’s activities were diverse and included intelligence gathering, sabotage, supply missions, raids, espionage, and the transport of goods. They also played a vital role in the release of Norwegian prisoners and the escort of citizens fleeing to neutral Sweden. Despite the constant threat of German retaliation, Milorg managed to establish permanent bases by the summer of 1944 and trained around 40,000 soldiers by the time of the German capitulation on May 8, 1945.

One of the key components of Milorg’s operations was its network of radio stations, which facilitated communication with the Norwegian government in exile and the Allied forces. Although many of these stations were discovered and destroyed by the Germans, they were instrumental in maintaining the flow of information and coordinating resistance efforts.

The initial lack of coordination between Milorg and the SOE led to several deadly incidents, creating bitterness within the resistance movement. However, after the SOE changed its policy at the end of 1942, the two organizations began working together more effectively. This collaboration was crucial in enhancing the impact of Milorg’s operations and ensuring better support from the Allies.

Notable Operations

Operation Claymore (March 1941): This was a British/Norwegian commando raid on the Lofoten Islands of northern Norway. The islands were an important center for the production of fish oil and glycerin, which were used in the German war economy. The operation successfully destroyed fish oil factories and approximately 3,600 tons of oil and glycerin.

Operation Archery (December 1941): Also known as the Måløy Raid, this was a British Combined Operations raid against German positions on the island of Vågsøy, Norway. The raid involved British Commandos and Norwegian forces, including members of Kompani Linge. The operation was successful in destroying German installations and disrupting their operations.

Operation Woodlark (May 1942): This involved the sabotage of the Thamshavnbanen railway line. This operation aimed to disrupt the transportation of pyrites, which were essential for the German war effort. Milorg operatives planted explosives on the railway line, causing significant damage and halting the transportation of these critical materials.

Operation Bittern (October – December 1942): This was a British Special Operations Executive (SOE) mission to assist Milorg with the assassinations of Norwegian Nazis and informers. Four SOE agents were parachuted into Norway to train selected Milorg personnel for these tasks. However, the operation faced challenges, including a lack of prior approval from Milorg and issues with the behavior of some agents. Despite these difficulties, the mission highlighted the complexities of coordinating resistance efforts.

Operation Carhampton (January – March 1943): This was a British and Norwegian special forces undertaking by the SOE to intercept and capture shipping off the western coast of German-occupied Norway. The operation was led by Norwegian resistance fighter Odd Kjell Starheim and aimed to disrupt German maritime activities. The mission involved dangerous reconnaissance and interception tasks, showcasing the bravery and strategic importance of such operations.

Operation Grouse (October 1942): This operation involved a team of Norwegian commandos who were parachuted into the Hardangervidda plateau to prepare for the later Operation Gunnerside. Their mission was to establish a base and gather intelligence on the Vemork heavy water plant.

Operation Gunnerside (February 1943): This operation targeted the Vemork heavy water plant in Rjukan. This plant was crucial for the German nuclear weapons program. Milorg, in collaboration with the British SOE, managed to infiltrate the heavily guarded facility and destroy the heavy water production cells. This operation is considered one of the most successful sabotage missions of the war.

Operation Swallow (February 1943): This operation was a follow-up to Operation Gunnerside. After the successful sabotage of the Vemork heavy water plant, the team had to evade German forces and make their way to Sweden. The operation involved dangerous travel through harsh winter conditions.

Operation Lapwing (October 1943 – early 1945): This operation focused on reconnoitering the Røros railway, with a view to its disruption by sabotage. A four-man party was parachuted into the area to gather intelligence and plan sabotage actions. Despite initial setbacks, including damaged radio equipment, the team established contact with the UK and carried out successful sabotage missions against the railway network, significantly hindering German operations.

These operations, among many others, highlight the bravery and strategic acumen of the Milorg operatives. Their efforts significantly contributed to the Allied war effort and the eventual liberation of Norway.

Impact and Legacy

Milorg’s efforts were instrumental in destabilizing the German occupation and contributing to the larger war effort. By the end of the war, Milorg had grown from a small sabotage unit to a full-fledged military force. Their actions not only helped in the liberation of Norway but also played a significant role in stabilizing the country post-war.

The legacy of Milorg showcases the resilience and bravery of the Norwegian people during one of the darkest periods in their history. Their contributions to the resistance movement are remembered and honored as a vital part of Norway’s fight for freedom.

Final Thoughts

The Norwegian Milorg stands as a symbol of courage and determination in the face of oppression. Their coordinated efforts with the SOE and other Allied forces were pivotal in the resistance against Nazi occupation. The story of Milorg is a powerful reminder of the impact that organized resistance can have in the struggle for liberty and justice.

Resource

Norges Hjemmefront Museum
https://kultur.forsvaret.no/museer/norges-hjemmefrontmuseum

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