Attack on Nybergsund, 11 April 1940

[Don Pearson]

I have been reading William Shirer's "The Nightmare Years". He mentions that during the invasion of Norway, Nybergsund was bombed in an attempt to kill the King and other government officials to keep them from forming a government-in-exile.

Not looking to stir up discussions of terror attacks, just wondering about the particulars of the operation, ie units involved, etc.

Thanks,

Don

[Seaplanes]

On April 11, 1940, 11 He 111 from II./K.G.26 bombed Nybergsund with 8 x 500 kilos and 32 x 250 kilos bombs in addition to 12 fire-bombs. The place was almost totally destroyed. The attack was carried out between 17.00 and 17.30 in the afternoon. Due to early warning of the attacking bombers, none were killed or seriously injured. The king and leading piliticians escaped.

[robert]

Hi,

I have takeoff at 17.00 hrs and bombing between 18.45 and 19.30 hrs (German time).

Robert

[Don Pearson]

Thanks to both of you.

Shirer cites a captured log book from a pilot indicating that the attackers were aware that they were targeting the "Norwegian Government", and as pointed out, King Haakon and his entourage were warned in advance, and watched the town disappear while they stood in knee-deep snow in the woods nearby.

An interesting source, as there are other instances mentioned of air attacks during the French Campaign, attacks that were not generally reported by the German press.

Thanks again,

Don