Lieutenant ALBERT CHOWNE

The following details are given in the London Gazette of 4th September, 1945, announcing the award of the Victoria Cross to Lt. A. Chowne, M.M., "For most conspicuous bravery, brilliant leadership and devotion to duty". After the capture of Dagua, in New Guinea, on March 25th, 1945, the main enemy force withdrew to previously prepared positions which threatened the flank of the Division and made further movement towards Wewak impossible. The battalion with which Lt. Chowne was serving was ordered to destroy the enemy. The leading platoon suffered severely, the wounded included the Platoon Commander. Lt. Chowne, commanding the reserve platoon, instantly rushed the enemy position, hurling grenades which knocked out two enemy light machine-guns. Calling on his men to follow him, he cleared the position. Although twice seriously wounded, Lt. Chowne accounted for two more Japanese before he was killed standing over fox-holes occupied by the enemy. The superb heroism and self-sacrifice of this officer, culminating in his death, resulted in the capture of this strongly held position, ensured the further immediate success of his Company and paved the way directly for the Division's advance to Wewak.