Helge Jung | |
|---|---|
.jpg) Helge Jung in 1944 | |
| Birth name | Helge Victor Jung |
| Born | 23 March 1886 Malmö, Sweden |
| Died | 3 January 1978 (aged 91) Stockholm, Sweden |
| Buried | Djursholm cemetery |
| Allegiance | Sweden |
| Service | Swedish Army |
| Years of service | 1906–1951 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands | |
| Relations | Bengt Liljestrand (son-in-law) |
General Helge Victor Jung (23 March 1886 – 3 January 1978) was a Swedish Army officer. Helge Jung had a distinguished military career in the Swedish Army. He began as a volunteer in 1904, graduated from the Military Academy Karlberg in 1906, and rose through the ranks, becoming a lieutenant in 1909 and later a captain in 1921. Jung served in various roles, including as an instructor and company commander, and attended military courses.
His contributions extended to the realm of war history and defence debate. Jung led the work on a comprehensive book about Sweden's war history, conducted extensive archival research, and played a key role in defence policy discussions. He founded the New Military Journal and had a significant influence on the Defence Act of 1936, which included a ten-year rearmament plan.
Jung's career continued to advance, and he became Chief of the Army Staff and the General Staff Corps in 1937. He advocated for active action in the event of war with the Soviet Union. However, disagreements within his circle of officers arose in the years leading up to World War II.
Jung was promoted to general in 1944 and appointed Supreme Commander of the Swedish Armed Forces. He held this position until 1951 and played a crucial role in shaping the future organization of the Swedish defence post-World War II. Despite facing challenges and opposition, Jung's determination and strategic leadership left a lasting impact on the Swedish military, modernizing its defence and anchoring it among the people. Historians describe Jung as a complex figure with both tactical cunning and a commitment to strengthening Sweden's defence.