Joannes Laurens van Elsen

Johannes Laurens van Elsen (27 December 1913 – 2005) was a highly decorated operative of the Dutch resistance during World War II. Operating under the clandestine alias "The Starling," he underwent specialized intelligence training in England with MI9 before returning to the occupied Netherlands. His efforts were centered around the frontline town of Tiel, where he executed high-risk operations to support Allied forces. Notably, in March 1945, he crossed the Waal River equipped with an S-phone—a secure, advanced communication device—to gather intelligence and directly facilitate the evasion and rescue of stranded Allied aviators. For his extreme bravery and contributions to the war effort, he was awarded several of the highest military honors post-war, including the Dutch Bronze Lion, the American Medal of Freedom with Silver Palm, and was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).

Following the tumult of the war years and subsequent political disagreements with municipal office bearers in Tiel over his wartime espionage role, Johannes chose to forge a completely new path. He emigrated from the Netherlands to Australia alongside his resilient wife, Maria (Mimi), and their family. In Australia, their family grew to include eight children. Transitioning from a life of intense espionage and wartime danger to one of peaceful obscurity, Johannes spent his remaining decades leading a quiet, simple life in a small Australian town. He passed away at the age of 92, enjoying his final years smoking cigars, drinking traditional Bols genever, and remaining surrounded by his extensive family and descendants.

The members of Joannes (Jan) Laurens van Elsen in Australia include:

Antoinette Rowlands
Maria Mackenzie
Bernard van Elsen
Mieke Knowles
John van Elsen
Lou van Elsen
Sophie Wilsdon
Bert van Elsen