Birger Eriksen
1875–1958 (age 83)
Biography
Birger Eriksen is immortalized for his calm resolve as commander of Oscarsborg Fortress when, on 9 April 1940, he ordered the fortress to fire on the approaching German cruiser Bløkholm, delaying the invasion and allowing government and royal officials to escape. A career officer, he had devoted decades to the defence of Norway and its coastal artillery.
For this single decisive act he earned lasting admiration from the Norwegian people, who saw in him the embodiment of courageous service to the nation in its darkest hour.