Dured E. Townsend

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Dured E. Townsend, Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of an Infantry Battalion of the 86th Mountain Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, in action against enemy forces from 14 to 17 April 1945, in Italy. When the 10th Mountain Division launched its final offensive in the North Apennine Mountains of Italy, Lieutenant Colonel Townsend led his battalion in the mission of spearheading in the 86th Mountain Infantry’s zone of action and of protecting the exposed right flank of the division. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he moved through mines and under enemy fire with his attacking companies giving them instructions and encouragement. Soon after taking the objective, Lieutenant Colonel Townsend’s jeep was fired on by a German 88, wounding the driver. Lieutenant Colonel Townsend’s intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 10th Mountain Division, and the United States Army.