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Joachim RonnebergMember of the Norwegian resistance during World War II
Date of Birth: 30.08.1919
Country:  Norway |
Content:
- Born and Early Life
- Military Career
- Norwegian Resistance
- Operation Gunnerside
- Other Operations
- Post-War Career
- Honors and Legacy
Born and Early Life
Joachim Rønneberg was born on August 30, 1919, in Ålesund, Norway. He was the son of Alf Rønneberg and Anna Krag Sandberg. His family was prominent in the local community, and his brother, Erling, would also become a notable member of the Norwegian resistance.
Military Career
After completing his compulsory military service in 1938, Rønneberg joined the Norwegian army's surveying department in 1940. When Nazi Germany invaded Norway in April 1940, he joined the 1st Independent Norwegian Company (NOR.I.C.1).
Norwegian Resistance
In 1941, Rønneberg and several friends escaped to Scotland by boat. There, he received military training and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He was selected by the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) to lead a mission to sabotage the German heavy water plant at Vemork, Norway.
Operation Gunnerside
On January 17, 1943, Rønneberg and six other Norwegian commandos parachuted into Norway. They traveled cross-country to Vemork, where they infiltrated the plant on February 27. They planted explosives that successfully destroyed the heavy water production facility.
Other Operations
Rønneberg subsequently led numerous other operations against the Germans, including Operation Fieldfare Cabin in Sunnmøre. His military service with NOR.I.C.1 ended in 1945 with the liberation of Norway.
Post-War Career
After the war, Rønneberg worked for the Norwegian Broadcasting Corporation (NRK) as a program secretary and later as assistant editor. He also served as President of the Rotary Club of Ålesund from 1970-1971.
Honors and Legacy
Rønneberg was awarded the Norwegian War Cross, the British Distinguished Service Order, the French Legion of Honour and Croix de Guerre, the American Medal of Freedom with Silver Palm, and numerous other medals from Norway and other countries. He passed away in Ålesund on October 21, 2018, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most decorated and celebrated heroes of the Norwegian resistance movement.
