08/04/2026
Who would say no to a crate of beer? Probably very few—certainly not the occupying forces! Our new Talking Statue honors Max Bæklund from the resistance group Holger Danske, and it will stand at the entrance to Forum in Copenhagen, holding a crate of beer.
On August 24, 1943, shortly after the Germans occupied Denmark, Forum was chosen as a billet for 1,500 German soldiers. But their plans that day didn’t go far. Max Bæklund walked into Forum carrying a crate of beer—or so the Germans thought. Hidden inside was 28 kilos of explosives, which Max brought in himself. You can see the original photo of that moment here. Soon after, Forum exploded.
This brave act left a deep mark in our history. Sadly, it came with great cost and left lasting scars on Max’s soul. He was part of the Danish resistance group Holger Danske, and his courage and determination to fight for freedom deserve to be remembered.
The statue, created by the Stjerne Radio association and artist Joakim Zacho Weylandt, is based on that original photo from that day.
Thanks to support from the Frederiksberg Foundation, Talking Statues has given Max Bæklund a voice so that we can all hear his story. Actor Michael Slebsager brings the resistance fighter’s tale to life, letting us feel the intensity and bravery of that moment.
Join us tomorrow, April 9th at 3:30 PM, for the unveiling of the statue. Let’s come together to remember and honor one of the bravest among us who fought for our freedom.
