Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

No. 1 Commando, 168th Regimental Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division "Red Bull", U.S. Army

Awarded on:

April 22nd, 1943

Awarded for:

Operation Torch

"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 Pt 231 at about 1800 hrs the enemy were advancing in large numbers trying to cut a road between our positions. Lt. Cowap led an assault with one Sub Section of 8 men against a force of about 150 Germans. He and bis men engaged the enemy at 5 yards range and during the subsequent hand to hand fighting succeeded in driving the enemy back and thus preventing the raod from being cut. During this action his party accounted for at least 50 Germans (of which 10 at least fell to Lt. Cowap), took 9 prisoners, and a quantity of equipment including four M.G 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 bot been successful it would have meant that the line of withdrawal of our forward troops would have been jeopardized."