Leif Larsen

Leif Larsen
Nickname(s)	"Shetlands Larsen"
Born	9 January 1906 (1906-01-09) Bergen, Norway
Died	12 October 1990 (1990-10-13) (aged 84) Bergen, Norway
Allegiance	Norway
Rank	Kapteinløytnant (Lieutenant Commander (N))
Unit	Shetland bus
Commands	MV Arthur MV Bergholm SC Vigra Other small vessels
Battles / wars	World War II
Awards	War Cross with two Swords St. Olav's Medal With Oak Branch Norwegian War Medal with three stars Participation (in World War II) Medal King Haakon VII's 70th anniversary Medal Conspicuous Gallantry Medal Distinguished Service Medal and Bar Distinguished Service Cross Distinguished Service Order Participation in the Winter War Medal Medal of Freedom (US)
Spouse(s)	Anna Justad

Leif Andreas Larsen DSO, DSC, CGM, DSM and Bar (9 January 1906 – 12 October 1990), popularly known as "Shetlands Larsen", was a highly decorated Norwegian sailor. He was arguably the most famous of the men who operated the Shetland bus escape route during the war.

He participated as a volunteer on the Finnish side during the Winter War and was a soldier in the defence of Norway following the German invasion at Kongsvinger Fortress. He had excellent leadership skills; one of the British officers at the Shetland base, David Howarth, described him as "one of the most remarkable personalities of the entire Second World War".^[1] Larsen preferred to downplay his own role and instead credited his crew for his achievements.