Fleischer's aggressive use of terrain and troops

The chapter opens with Norwegian forces beginning their advance from Harstad under Fleischer and with HMS Effingham running aground during the same phase of operations. Fleischer's direct, aggressive approach contrasts with Otto Ruge's wider strategy of withdrawal and waiting for Allied help. Fleischer kept his troops moving and motivated, exploited the terrain, removed ineffective officers, and insisted that political leaders support the troops. Norway's small initial German detachments offered opportunities for counterattack that a passive strategy allowed to disappear. After the king ordered Fleischer to Britain, he was apparently intended for command of Norwegian forces in exile, yet the government selected a junior officer who had not fought in the campaign. Fleischer was sent to Canada and later died by suicide after being excluded from the active operations he wanted to lead. His fate sharpens the contrast between effective combat leadership and political confidence.