By Dan Jones LJI
Northumberland 89.7 FM
It was a fitting tribute to a trailblazer in World War II, as a Cobourg woman would not only become the first woman to operate a wireless radio on a naval ship, but also inspire other women to join the war effort.
While not being permitted to serve for Canada or England, Fern Blodgett-Sunde enlisted in the Norwegian merchant ships during the Battle of the Atlantic, where her 78 transatlantic voyages helped the Allied Forces.
Twin statues are now erected in Cobourg and Norway, honouring her accomplishments and inspirations.
Her legacy of courage and a desire to fight for peace and democracy has now strengthened the link between the two Arctic nations.
Originally aired: September 22, 2025
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