James Towers

Private James Towers VC: The Quiet Hero of the Western Front Private James Towers VC stands among the most remarkable examples of courage displayed during the closing months of the First World War. Yet, to those who met him later in life, he was a man defined by profound humility. He never sought fame or recognition, nor did he boast about his achievements; he was simply a man who saw his duty to his comrades and did it, no matter the cost. From Lancashire Fields to the Western Front Born in Preston, Lancashire, in September 1897, James grew up in a farming family and spent his early years working on the land. Like many young men of his generation, he felt compelled to serve when war engulfed Europe. An initial attempt to enlist ended when it was discovered that he was underage, yet his determination did not waver. He returned to the colours in 1916 and eventually joined the 2nd Battalion, The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles). By December of that year, he had arrived on the Western Front, where he endured the relentless hardships of trench warfare. For almost two years he lived amid mud, shellfire, exhaustion, and constant danger. These were experiences that forged the resilience and determination for which he would later become renowned. His story, however, is not simply one of battlefield heroism, but also of steadfast duty and loyalty to his fellow soldiers. The Five Runners Before Him On 6 October 1918, near Méricourt in France, Towers faced the moment that would define his legacy. During intense fighting, a British platoon became isolated and trapped after failing to receive orders to withdraw. Attempts were made to get a vital message through to the trapped men, but each volunteer who carried it was cut down by enemy fire. Five runners stepped forward in succession, and all five lost their lives. Fully aware of what had happened and having witnessed the deadly consequences with his own eyes, Towers nevertheless volunteered for the mission. He was the sixth man to try. The Deadly Dash Moving from shell-hole to shell-hole under heavy machine-gun fire, crawling through wire and navigating terrain swept by enemy guns, Towers pressed forward with extraordinary determination. At one stage he found himself dangerously close to a German machine-gun position, yet he continued without hesitation. Against overwhelming odds, he reached the stranded platoon, delivered the message, and later helped guide the men safely back to British lines. His actions saved numerous lives and demonstrated exceptional bravery under the most perilous conditions. A Legacy of Humility For this act of conspicuous gallantry, James Towers was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest decoration for valour in the British armed forces. The official citation praised his courage, determination, and complete disregard for personal danger. In May 1919, he received the award from King George V. Despite the prestigious honor, Towers never sought the spotlight. Returning to Lancashire after the war, he resumed a quiet life, working as a farmer and later running a milk round within his community. Those who knew him remembered not a celebrated war hero, but a modest, hardworking man who rarely spoke of his achievements. He died in January 1977 at the age of seventy-nine, leaving behind a legacy built not on glory, but on selfless service. More than a century later, his story continues to inspire because it reflects the highest ideals of comradeship, sacrifice, and duty in the face of almost certain death.