Gunnar Fridtjof Thurmann Sønsteby (11 January 1918 – 10 May 2012) occupies a distinguished place in Norwegian history as one of the most significant figures of the resistance movement during the Second World War. Known affectionately as “Kjakan” (The Chin) and under the codename “No. 24,” Sønsteby became a symbol of courage, cunning, and unyielding determination in the face of Nazi occupation. His extraordinary feats of sabotage, espionage, and leadership played a pivotal role in undermining the German war effort in Norway and have ensured his lasting legacy as a national hero.
Early Life and Background
Born in Rjukan, a small industrial town nestled in the Telemark region of Norway, Gunnar Sønsteby grew up in a community shaped by its rugged landscape and industrious spirit. The son of factory workers, he was raised with a strong sense of independence and resourcefulness. These traits would later serve him well during his wartime exploits.
Sønsteby moved to Oslo as a young man, where he pursued business studies. It was during this period that he witnessed the outbreak of World War II. When German forces invaded Norway on 9 April 1940, Sønsteby’s life took a dramatic turn. Determined to resist the occupation, he joined the underground movement that would soon become the Norwegian resistance.
Joining the Resistance
The German occupation of Norway was marked by strict control, suppression of dissent, and the collaborationist Quisling government. For many Norwegians, this was a time of moral reckoning. Sønsteby quickly became involved with Milorg, the main Norwegian resistance organisation. Milorg initially focused on gathering intelligence and organising secret networks, but over time, it grew into a sophisticated organisation capable of carrying out acts of sabotage and guerrilla warfare.
Sønsteby’s talents for strategy and disguise quickly set him apart. His ability to blend into different environments, adopt various identities, and evade detection became the stuff of legend. Under the codename “No. 24,” he carried out numerous high-risk missions, earning a reputation as one of the most effective operatives in the resistance.
Key Operations and Achievements
The Sabotage of German Infrastructure
One of Sønsteby’s most notable contributions to the resistance was his involvement in sabotaging German infrastructure and supply chains. These operations were vital to disrupting the German war effort and demonstrated his resourcefulness and daring.
In 1943, Sønsteby led an operation to destroy the archives of the Norwegian Labour Service in Oslo. The Labour Service was a German-controlled organisation that conscripted Norwegian workers to labour in support of the Nazi war effort. By obliterating these records, Sønsteby and his team effectively rendered the programme inoperative, saving countless Norwegians from forced labour.
The Theft of Ration Cards
Another ingenious operation involved the theft of ration cards from a government office. These cards were essential for obtaining food and supplies, and their distribution was tightly controlled by the Nazis. Sønsteby’s team managed to infiltrate the office and steal a significant number of cards, which were then redistributed to resistance members and those in hiding. This act not only sustained the resistance but also dealt a blow to the German administration’s control over the population.
Attacking Heavy Water Production
Perhaps one of the most famous operations Sønsteby supported was the sabotage of the Norsk Hydro plant at Vemork. This facility was critical to the German nuclear programme due to its production of heavy water, a key component in nuclear research. While Sønsteby did not participate directly in the initial raid led by the British and Norwegian commandos of Operation Gunnerside, he played a crucial role in subsequent efforts to disrupt the Germans’ attempts to restart production. His intelligence work ensured that the Allies were kept informed about German activities at the site.
Espionage and Intelligence Gathering
In addition to his sabotage missions, Sønsteby excelled as a master of espionage. Operating under numerous aliases, he collected critical intelligence on German troop movements, fortifications, and plans. This information was relayed to Allied forces and played a significant role in the overall war effort.
Sønsteby’s skill in evading capture was legendary. Despite being one of the most wanted men in Norway, with his face plastered on German-issued wanted posters, he managed to remain at large throughout the occupation. His use of disguises, fake papers, and a network of safe houses allowed him to stay one step ahead of the enemy.
Post-War Recognition and Legacy
After the war, Gunnar Sønsteby’s contributions were widely recognised both in Norway and internationally. He was awarded numerous honours, including Norway’s highest military decoration, the War Cross with three swords. This distinction, rarely bestowed, underscores the exceptional nature of his service.
Sønsteby’s wartime memoir, Report from No. 24, offers a compelling account of his experiences and provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by the resistance. The book remains an important historical document and a testament to his bravery and ingenuity.
In the post-war years, Sønsteby became an advocate for remembrance and education. He dedicated much of his life to speaking about the importance of resistance, the value of freedom, and the lessons of World War II. His efforts ensured that future generations would understand the sacrifices made by ordinary people to oppose tyranny.
Personal Qualities and Philosophy
What set Gunnar Sønsteby apart was not only his remarkable achievements but also his character. He was known for his modesty, often downplaying his role in the resistance and emphasising the collective effort of countless Norwegians who risked their lives for freedom. His humility and focus on teamwork made him an inspiring figure.
Sønsteby’s philosophy was rooted in a deep sense of duty and resilience. He believed in the power of ordinary individuals to make a difference, even in the darkest of times. His story serves as a powerful reminder that courage and determination can prevail against seemingly insurmountable odds.
Commemoration and Influence
Gunnar Sønsteby’s legacy continues to be celebrated in Norway and beyond. Statues and memorials in his honour stand as enduring symbols of his contributions. The Gunnar Sønsteby Memorial Fund, established to promote knowledge about the resistance, supports educational initiatives and keeps his story alive.
Sønsteby’s life has also inspired numerous books, documentaries, and films, ensuring that his heroic deeds are not forgotten. His story resonates particularly strongly in a world where the fight against oppression and injustice remains relevant.
Gunnar Fridtjof Thurmann Sønsteby’s life is a testament to the extraordinary impact that one individual can have in the face of adversity. As Norway’s most decorated war hero, he exemplifies the courage, ingenuity, and resilience that defined the Norwegian resistance during World War II. His legacy continues to inspire new generations, reminding us all of the enduring value of freedom and the sacrifices required to preserve it.
