James Towers

Ran through fire to reach an isolated platoon and warn them.

James Towers was born at Preston, Lancashire, in September 1897. His parents worked in the cotton industry before taking a dairy farm at Broughton, where he helped with the work. Educated at Emmanuel Church of England School, he attempted to enlist in the Royal Field Artillery in August 1915 but was discharged after his true age was discovered. He later served in the 2nd Battalion, Cameronians.

On 6 October 1918, at Méricourt, a platoon had failed to receive orders to withdraw and remained exposed ahead of the British line. Five messengers had already been killed trying to reach it. Towers volunteered to make another attempt. Moving through machine-gun fire, shell holes and wire, he eventually found the isolated men and delivered the order. He remained with them overnight and helped guide them back the following morning. His determination and courage earned the Victoria Cross.

Towers was discharged in January 1919 and returned quietly to Preston. George V presented his decoration at Buckingham Palace on 8 May. He later joined the VC guard of honour at the burial of the Unknown Warrior in November 1920.

He returned to the family dairy farm, delivered milk by horse and cart, and developed poultry and milk businesses. In 1926 he married Ethel Birchall; they had a daughter, Marion. Towers maintained connections with fellow VC holders and attended reunions over many years, including the 1956 centenary gathering. He died in Preston Royal Infirmary on 24 January 1977 and was cremated locally.

Official Victoria Cross citation

For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty at Mericourt on 6 October 1918 when under heavy fire, five runners having failed to deliver an important message, Private Towers, well aware of the fate of the runners who had already attempted the task, volunteered for the duty. In spite of heavy fire opened on him as soon as he moved, he went straight through from cover to cover and eventually delivered the message. His valour, determination, and utter disregard of danger were an inspiring example to all.