SPIRIT OF NORWEGIANS

Waikato Times, Volume 128, Issue 21367, 11 March 1941, Page 4

SPIRIT OF NORWEGIANS

The rescue by the British Navy of 300 Norwegians from the Lofoten Islands has revealed what is probably a fairly reliable crosssection of the Norwegian people under German rule. While it is true there is a percentage of “ Quislings ” among the population who welcomed and facilitated .the German occupation, it is evident that the vast majority of the people are only awaiting an opportunity to throw off the Nazi yoke and begin to rebuild their national independence. How long relief will be delayed no one can yet tell, but the spirit of those who have been brought to freedom indicates that at the earliest possible moment those who are now under the German heel should be given the opportunity to strike a blow for their own salvation.

The 300 men and women from the Lofoten Islands gave a loyal demonstration before King Haakon in England. They are anxious to take their places in active service for the Allies, and most desire to join the Air Force so that they will have a chance of avenging their wrongs in their own country. This is no doubt typical of the attitude of thousands of Norwegians, Danes, Dutch, Belgian, French, Polish and Czechoslovakian people who, though for the time being rendered more or less helpless by the German occupation, will eventually assist in bringing the Nazis to account. How can they be brought into the struggle for freedom ? Thousands of them have escaped and joined the Allied forces, and no doubt other thousands will follow, but most of them must watch and wait until Britain and her allies open the way for them.

Geimanys hope is, of course, that occupation, suppression or persuasion will gradually win all these people to the Nazi cause. But Germany labours under the disadvantage that her regime is evil and manifests itself in evil ways. Only those who have lost their honour can be converted to the Nazi way of life. When the German offensive has run its course and the tide of retribution sets in, amongst the most terrible enemies will be those who have lost their relatives, their friends, their property and all that freedom stands for. Even now Germany is compelled to dam the tide of revenge. The day will come when the dam will burst and the German aggressors will be swept back in utter confusion. It is Britain’s duty and privilege to hold the fort and make that day possible for freedom-loving peoples.