Finnish Soldiers in World War II: From Defense to Controversy

Finland’s participation in World War II was marked by three distinct sub-conflicts, each highlighting the complexities of their military engagement. The Winter War, Continuation War, and Lapland War were pivotal moments in Finnish history, showcasing the bravery and strategic decisions of Finnish soldiers.

The Winter War (1939-1940)

The Winter War, which lasted from November 30, 1939, to March 13, 1940, was a conflict between the Soviet Union and Finland. During this period, Finnish soldiers fought a valiant defense against a Soviet invasion. This initial conflict set the stage for larger implications that would unfold in subsequent wars.

The Continuation War (1941-1944)

The Continuation War, from June 25, 1941, to September 19, 1944, was a more complex endeavor. Finnish forces allied with Nazi Germany in Operation Barbarossa, aiming to retake territories lost to the Soviet Union in the Winter War. This strategic decision played a significant role in the larger European theater of World War II.

The Lapland War (1944-1945)

The Lapland War, a smaller conflict from September 19, 1944, to April 27, 1945, saw Finnish and German forces clash following the Moscow Armistice. This war was a reflection of the broader geopolitical landscape and the winding down of World War II in Northern Europe.

Controversial Participation: Finnish Soldiers in the Waffen-SS

Alongside their military engagements, some Finnish soldiers made controversial choices to join the Waffen-SS. One of the most notable cases was Lauri Alan T?rtini, who joined the Finnish Volunteer Battalion of the Waffen-SS under the alias Larry Laine. Despite facing legal repercussions after the war, T?rtini was eventually pardoned in 1948.

His post-war life was marked by further immigration to the United States, where he served in the U.S. Army under the name Larry Thorne. Tragically, T?rtini died in a helicopter crash during the Vietnam War in 1965. After extensive efforts to identify his remains, he was repatriated to the United States and buried at Arlington Cemetery in 2003.

Conclusion

Finland’s involvement in World War II was a mixture of defense, strategic alignment, and controversial actions. These conflicts highlight the complexities of historical engagements and the diverse paths taken by individual soldiers during such tumultuous times. The stories of Finnish soldiers provide valuable insights into the broader narrative of World War II.