Historian Dennis Larsen, museum inspector at the National Museum of Denmark, presents a compelling lecture on Danish SS deserters during World War II — soldiers whose stories have often been forgotten or overlooked. Drawing on extensive research, Larsen shares poignant personal accounts of servicemen who voluntarily enlisted in German military service but later came to regret their decision.
The lecture explores contradictory and tragic outcomes: some successfully deserted and survived, while others were captured and punished by German military courts. One particularly moving account is that of Hans Otto Hausgaard Andersen, who was executed in Ryvangen and only received proper burial after the war, when his remains were discovered buried at the site.
The event is based on Larsen's book Fallen Angels and Bone Men, published in 2024, and examines the complexity of these men's choices, moral decisions, and devastating consequences.
Practical Information
- Location: Mindelunden in Ryvangen
- Ticket: Purchase or book a ticket on-site or in advance
