A Norwegian journalist and war historian who documented Norway's resistance during World War II, shedding light on the country's experience under German occupation.
Born on April 19, 1920, in Ulstein, Sunnmøre, Norway, Ragnar Ulstein was the son of Johannes Olsson Ulstein and Borghild Strand. He completed his secondary education at Volda in June 1940, just as World War II was unfolding. With the German occupation of Norway, Ulstein fled to the United Kingdom, where he became a member of the Norwegian Independent Company 1 (NOR.I.C.1), led by Martin Linge.
Operation Anklet: In December 1941, Ulstein participated in this raid at Reine, Norway, and later returned to the United Kingdom.
Operation Vestige I: In 1943, Ulstein was part of this failed operation, which aimed to place limpet mines on ships in Svelgen harbor. Although the explosives went off too early, the participants, including Ulstein, managed to flee to England.
Milorg Instructor: In 1944, Ulstein returned to Norway as an instructor for Milorg in Sogn og Fjordane, where he led the group Siskin. Ulstein worked closely with local contacts, including Olav Rise, Nils Knagenhjelm, and Hans H. H. Heiberg.
Ulstein's wartime experiences inspired him to write several documentary books, which provide a firsthand account of Norway's resistance movement during World War II. His works have contributed significantly to the country's historical record, making him a celebrated author in Norway.
Ragnar Ulstein was awarded the Medal of St. Olav, a high honor conferred by King Haakon VII of Norway, for his bravery during World War II.
Ragnar Ulstein's life is a testament to the courage and determination of the Norwegian people during World War II. His literary works serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the resistance movement and the importance of preserving historical accounts. Ulstein's legacy continues to inspire future generations, solidifying his place as one of Norway's most esteemed writers and resistance heroes.
April 19, 1920: Ragnar Ulstein was born in Ulstein, Sunnmøre, Norway.
June 1940: Ulstein completed his secondary education at Volda.
1940: Fled to the United Kingdom due to World War II and the German occupation of Norway.
December 2019: Ragnar Ulstein passed away at the age of 99.
Ragnar Ulstein's life has been the subject of several books, films, and documentaries, cementing his status as a Norwegian national hero.
Ulstein's literary works have been translated into multiple languages, making his stories accessible to a global audience.
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