Bjarne Øen was a Norwegian pilot and military officer. During World War II

World War II

World War II, or the Second World War , was a global conflict lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations—including all of the great powers—eventually forming two opposing military alliances: the Allies and the Axis...

 he played a central role in building up the Norwegian Air Force in Canada and the United Kingdom.

In 1929, Øen received the King's Medal of Merit in gold. In 1947 he was awarded the title of Commander with Star of the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav, for his war contributions. He served as Chief of Defence of Norway

Chief of Defence of Norway

The Chief of Defence of Norway is the highest ranking officer of the Military of Norway, second only to the King of Norway. Even though he holds the same rank as the King of Norway, according to the Norwegian Constitution the King holds the highest command of the Army, Air Force, Navy and Home...

from 1957 to 1963.