WWII Torture Victims Memorial-Bergen, Norway

In a quiet corner of central Bergen sits an unassuming memorial. It has been worn by the passage of time, and is very easy to miss-a simple engraved stone column.

At the top is a symbol-the letter H with the number 7 in its center. This represents King Haakon VII, who was ruler of Norway at the time of the war, but who was forced into exile. While in exile he managed to lead a resistance movement that had widespread support in Norway. This H + 7 became a symbol of hope and solidarity.

Below this we see the following:  “Sa Hard En Tid, Sa Vond En Strid… Minne Om Dem Som Ble Torturert Av Gestapo I Krigen 1940-1945.”  Such a difficult time, such a painful war. In memory of those who were tortured by the Gestapo during the war 1940-1945.

The very bottom of the monument provides us with the name of the organization responsible for the monument and the year of its dedication. “Reist Av Bergens Forsvarforening 1990” Raised by Bergen’s Ministry of Defense 1990

During World War II, Norway faced occupation by the Nazis. Germany invaded Norway on April 9, 1940, and the occupation did not end until May 8, 1945. Over the course of the occupation Norway’s resistance movement worked toward freeing Norway from the Nazi’s grasp. Approximately 40,000 were imprisoned and 500 were killed.

The former Archives building (Arkivet) in Kristiansand, Norway served as the Gestapo’s headquarters, and was the location for the imprisonment and torture of numerous resistance fighters. Many suspected of being a member of the movement were taken there to be tortured for information. It is estimated that over 300 people faced torture in the basement of that building, in a room chosen for its location-an area in which the screams of the prisoners would not easily be heard. Today, the building serves as a museum, so that new generations may learn about its history.

I discovered the monument during a walk through the city on one of its many rainy days. I almost passed it by, since it was not in a heavily trafficked area. Seeing it inspired to do some research-my knowledge of Norway’s role in WWII was nonexistent. It made me sad to discover that they also suffered greatly during the Nazis’ reign of terror, but it made me glad to know that there were those willing to give their lives in the fight for freedom.

Sites cited:

http://kulturnett.sfj.no/delving/search/item/FMU-KM/FMU.301571

http://hellofromnorway.blogspot.com/2011/05/norway-under-occupation.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/H7_(monogram)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norwegian_resistance_movement

Statue of King Kamehameha I
Honolulu, Hawaii
Taken by me November 2012

King Kamehameha I, also known as King Kamehameha the Great (full name-Kalani Paiʻea Wohi o Kaleikini Kealiʻikui Kamehameha o ʻIolani i Kaiwikapu kauʻi Ka Liholiho Kūnuiākea) is a renowned figure in Hawaiian history. He is credited as the leader who united the islands, bringing stability and protection from outside rule.  Under his decade-long leadership, the Kingdom of Hawaii was established in 1810. He is held in such high regard that a state holiday was created in his honor-June 11 is Kamehameha Day. There are also 4 statues in his honor-3 in Hawaii, and one in Washington, D.C.  The picture below is of the most famous statue, which stands in downtown Honolulu, in front of the Hawaii State Supreme Court (Aliiolani Hale).  Standing eight and a half feet tall, the statue shows the king in royal attire. The spear symbolizes his defense of the kingdom, while his other hand is extended in a welcoming gesture.  The statue was created by American sculptor Thomas R. Gould, who was commissioned by the kingdom of Hawaii.

King Kamehameha’s birth and death dates are under debate. His year of birth has been cited as early as 1736 or as late as 1758. History does seem to agree that he was most likely born in the month of November. He passed away on either May 8^th or 14^th, 1819. As per Hawaiian tradition, his final resting place has remained a secret, even to this day.

The King Kamehameha statue impressed me with its simplicity. The king wears only a draped robe and sandals, yet conveys power in his stance and expression. His outstretched hand beckons you to come closer, while the weapon he wields reminds you of his bravery. The beautifully landscaped surroundings offer a peaceful place to reflect upon Kamehameha’s contribution to his people.

Sites cited:

www.aloha-hawaii.com/oahu/kamehameha-statue/

www.gohawaii.com/en/oahu/regions-neighborhoods/honolulu/king-kamehameha-statue/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamehameha_I