1st Division (Norway) facts for kids

The 1st Division was an important part of the Norwegian Army. Its job was to help protect Eastern Norway. It worked together with the 2nd Division to keep the country safe.

The 1st Division: Protecting Norway

What Was the 1st Division?

The 1st Division was a military group in Norway. It was part of the Norwegian Army. Its main task was to defend the eastern parts of Norway. This included the areas around the Oslofjord.

Facing the Invasion

In 1940, Germany invaded Norway. This event is known as Operation Weserübung. The 1st Division, led by Major General Carl Johan Erichsen, was responsible for defending the land. They had to protect areas on both sides of the Oslofjord from the German troops.

The division was not fully ready for the attack. Many soldiers had not yet joined their units. Also, the division's supply depots in Fredrikstad were captured by the Germans very quickly. This happened on April 9, 1940.

Battles and Choices

The 1st Division was in charge of several important forts. These included Fossum Fortress (Høytorp Fort and Trøgstad Fort) in Askim. They also defended Greåker Fort in Sarpsborg.

The German attacks began on April 12. There were battles at bridges crossing the Glomma river. These included the Fossum Bridge and a bridge near Kykkelsrud Power Station. Fossum Fortress surrendered on April 13.

On April 14, many Norwegian soldiers in Østfold faced a tough choice. About 3,000 men decided to cross the border into Sweden. They chose this instead of continuing to fight or surrendering to the Germans.

In Kongsberg, two groups of soldiers surrendered without fighting. However, some officers and soldiers disagreed. They chose to keep fighting. They defended the Vinje district for about one month.