Edgar Thomas Towner

From Alf Askin's research notes

Reproduced as Alf wrote it, c. 2000–2005. Spelling and abbreviations are his own.

TOWNER, Edgar Thomas. (reg No. 1222).

Lieutenant. 2nd. Battalion. Australian Machine-Gun Corps.

London Gazetted on 14th December 1918.

VC Medal's Custodian is unknown.

Born on 19th April 1890 at Glencoe Station, Queensland, Australia.

Died on 18th August 1972 at Kaloola Station, Longreach, Queensland, Australia.

Memorial on grave at a Longreach Cemetery, Queensland, Australia.

Digest of Citation reads: Lieutenant Towner, on the 1st September 1918, was in charge of four Vicker's machine guns, at Mont St Quentin, Peronne, France. With a great devotion to duty, outstanding bravery and entirely on his own initiative, during the early stages of their advance, he located and single-handedly captured a machine-gun, which had been inflicting several casualties. Turning their own machine-gun on to the Germans, he inflicted heavy losses. Subsequently, by the skilful use of the Vicker's machine guns, he managed to cut off 25 of the enemy and take them prisoner. Later, with great foresight and readiness, and by his own fearless reconnaissance, he was able to bring his guns to bear on the enemy groups, where they were situated, giving valuable support to the advancing infantry. When short of ammunition, he secured and mounted an enemy machine gun, and in full view of the them, he fired upon them forcing them to retire even further, enabling the advance to continue. Although Lieutenant Towner was wounded, he continued to fire the gun at this very critical time. The following night, he inspired his men immensely as he gave support to a small detached post, remaining cheerful and cool at this time. Throughout the night, he kept close watch on the enemy and their actions by reconnoitring personally. Thirty hours after being wounded he was finally evacuated, completely exhausted. There is no doubt that this officer's resourcefulness, courage and sheer determination had saved a very critical situation, contributing greatly to the successful attack.

Additional information:. Major Towner, also held the Military Cross (MC) and the Croix de Guerre of France. He was a Fellow, of both, the Royal Geographical Society of Australia and the Royal Historical Society of New South Wales.