Pajari’s men – Soldiers from Northern Häme in the Winter and Continuation Wars
In the Winter War and Continuation War, in 1939–44, many men from Northern Häme served in forces commanded by Major General Aaro Pajari.
15.2. —
13.8.2017
In the Winter War, they served in Infantry Regiment 16 in Tolvajärvi, and the Continuation War saw the 18th Division fight on the Karelian isthmus. Pajari, who was twice awarded the Mannerheim Cross, had a legendary reputation. He was a controversial and colourful character who was criticised by many of his colleagues but valued by his subordinates. An exceptionally strong bond was formed between Pajari and his men, who started to call themselves ‘Pajari’s men’ already during the war.
During the Winter War, Infantry Regiment 16 defeated a Soviet division in Tolvajärvi, in the wilds north of Lake Ladoga. This marked the first large-scale victory for the Finns, which built the Finnish army’s confidence in its abilities and, thereby, significantly affected the outcome of the Winter War.
In the Pajari’s Men exhibition, the soldiers’ experiences are brought to life through text, audio files, photographs, videos, touchscreen interaction, and objects used during the war. Among the objects are General Pajari’s medals, whose destiny received a great deal of attention in its time.