Freddy Bolle – A story of combat, loss, PTSD, inspiration and trust

On our third podcast in the EKKO series, we interview Freddy Bolle who is a Norwegian military veteran, father, brother and care worker for troubled teenagers.

We discuss his five deployments to Lebanon, Somalia, the Balkans and Afghanistan. His tasks varied from Close Protection Security, Intelligence operator and soldier in the QRF – quick reaction force.

As an intelligence operative, Freddy often worked in small teams without back up and support. He taught himself how to prepare his weapon in the dark should someone enter his room as well as other skills required to survive in hostile environments.

He shares a story of loss and tragedy very close to home. At one point in his life, he also received death threats to himself and his family from an extremist Islamic group.

It is inspirational, that a man who loved action, also had a focus on helping others – especially criminal teenagers who had lost their way. He shares with us how his skills in the military helped him overcome a “barrier” that these teenagers would use to shut adults out.

We thank Freddy for his time and hope you enjoy our podcast.