INDENTD.F.M. London Gazette 20.7.1943. Sergeant, No. 15 Squadron. The recommendation states -- "One night in June 1943, these airmen were captain and wireless operator/air gunner respectively of an aircraft detailed to attack Wuppertal. Shortly after crossing the enemy coast, on the outward flight, the bomber was engaged by a hostile aircraft which was shot down and Sergeant Towse flew on to the target and bombed it. Shortly afterwards, the bomber was hit by anti-aircraft fire and fragments of shrapnel pierced 4 of the petrol tanks. One of them caught fire and the situation became serious. Nevertheless, Sergeant Towse attempted to quell the flamed by diving his aircraft violently and, in this way, succeeded in his purpose. Much petrol had leaked from the damaged tanks and course was set for this country. Shortly after crossing the enemy coast the petrol supply became exhausted and the aircraft came down on to the sea and quickly sank. Although he was trapped below the water, Sergeant Towse succeeded in freeing himself and escaped through the hatch and was hauled aboard the dinghy by Sergeant Pawley. The crew were eventually rescued. In the face of a perilous situation, Sergeant Towse displayed great courage, skill and resource, while Sergeant Pawley rendered valuable assistance, diligently working his wireless apparatus until the last moment."

Warrant Officer Norman John Pawley, D.F.M., was made a prisoner of war when as Sergeant Wireless Operator/Air Gunner his Stirling bomber was shot down during an attack on Essen 25/26 July 1943; in the Prisoner of War Register 1945, he is shown in Camp 4B Muhlberg (Elbe) - "Exchanged identity with Private (7611110) F.A.S.C. Watter, R.A.O.C. "also at 4B; was Mentioned in Despatches for services whilst a prisoner of war (London Gazette 31.1.1947)