Marine Douglas Towler from Aberdeen was awarded the Military Medal for distinguished service on the night of the Elbe crossing in 1945.

Crossing of the River Elbe and capture of Lauenberg 29th April 1945.
On the night of the Elbe crossing Mne Towler was a Bren Gunner in D Troop 45 RM Cdo. His Troop became involved in confused street fighting in the dark on its way to its objective.

Mne Towler was ordered to take up a position to cover a flank whilst his Troop pushed on. He selected a position in a house and engaged the enemy immediately. A section attack was put in against his house by the enemy. This was beaten off by steady and accurate shooting. As his ammunition was getting low, Mne Towler sent his No.2 of the gun to get more.

During his absence another attempt was made by the enemy to dislodge Mne Towler. Again this was beaten off. When his No.2 returned together with a sub section to assist, there was only one magazine left containing a few rounds. Two dead Germans were within ten yards of the gun and eleven other dead or wounded in the immediate vicinity.

Although Mne Towler was not actually wounded he was considerably grazed by brick splinters and stones raised by the 2cm flak guns which were used against his position.

Mne. Towler's tenacity and determination was largely responsible for this troop being able to push on, without undue interference, to their objective.

 

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