COWAP, Dalton Hayton

Known as: 
George
Rank: 
Captain
Unit / Base: 
1 Commando
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Artillery
Service: 
Army
Number: 
180592
Honours & Awards: 
Captain Dalton Hayton 'George' Cowap MC, 4 Troop, was wounded during operations at Myebon in January, and reported as dangerously ill on the 19th January 1945 [1][1a][2].  
1943 (Lieutenant, No 1 Commando) awarded the Military Cross in recognition of gallant and distinguished service in North Africa [3].
Recommendation
Throughout the period of 26th February to 4th March 1943, during which time his troop were constantly engaged with the enemy, the above Officer displayed at all times coolness, courage,determination and devotion to duty.
On 2nd March 1943, in area Hill Point 231 at about 1800 hours the enemy were advancing in large numbers trying to cut a road between our positions. Lieut Cowap led an assault with one sub-section of eight men against a force of about 150 Germans. He and his men engaged the enemy at five yards range and during the subsequent hand to hand fighting succeeded in driving the enemy back and thus preventing the road from being cut.
During this action his party accounted for at least 50 Germans (of which ten at least fell to Lieut Cowap), took nine prisoners, and a quantity of equipment including four MG 34's.
His leadership and courage was such that the attack was carried out with the loss to his party of only one man killed and one man missing. This Officer's action, powers of leadership, personal courage, and devotion to duty was an example to all. If this operation had not been successful it would have meant that the line or withdrawal of our forward troops would have been jeopardised. [Recommended for DSO, awarded MC]. [3a].
  • 16 April 1947 relinquished commission and granted the honorary rank of Captain [4].
  • Post war resided Rhodesia (Zimbabwe.) [1].
Sources
[1] Casualty Lists / National Archives file WO417/8.
[1a] Commando Association newsletter 49.
[2] No 1 Commando War Diary January 1945 [view].
[3] London Gazette 35987, page 1846.
[3a] Award Recommendation / National Archives file WO373/1/112.
[4] London Gazette 37929, page 1665.
 

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