The National Archives
Education
World War II
Catalogue ref: HS 2/185
This source is part of a recommendation for medals to be awarded to a number of SOE agents for a mission they carried out in Norway.
Many SOE agents were awarded for their actions in the war. They faced terrible dangers and could be treated as spies if captured.
After invading Poland, Hitler's forces invaded Denmark and Norway. Norway was especially important to Hitler. It had aircraft and submarine bases that could be used to attack ships supplying Britain from North America. Norway also had important natural resources, such as timber. Norway also had efficient hydroelectric power plants to generate electricity.
The Norwegians resisted with British help when Germany invaded in April 1940. However, the British were defeated and Norway surrendered in June 1940. Despite this, there was an important underground resistance movement in Norway. This movement had strong links with British intelligence and received supplies and equipment throughout the war.
As well as resources, Norway had technology as well. The Germans used bases and facilities in Norway to research and develop new weapons and equipment.
One of the German research facilities was involved in the early stages of the German programme to develop a nuclear bomb. However, Hitler cancelled this project.
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