FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- Fort Drum officials have dedicated the Mission Training Complex in honor of Lt. Col. Dured E. Townsend, who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and Silver Star for his actions with the 10th Mountain Division during World War II, during a memorialization ceremony March 3 at the center.
During the ceremony, Col. Gary A. Rosenberg, Fort Drum garrison commander, unveiled a plaque memorializing Townsend's service that will be affixed to the Mission Training Complex building.
The facility combines electronic simulations and field training exercises to provide mission training to commanders and their staffs.
Townsend, who initially enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1929 at the age of 16, eventually was awarded the highest enlisted rank in the Army at that time: master sergeant. He was commissioned as an Army officer before America's involvement in WWII.
In 1943, the Newberry, Ind., native was promoted to the rank of major and was selected to command the 2nd Battalion, 86th Mountain Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division.
Five months after being promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel in 1944, Townsend and his unit were sent overseas in support of the Italian Campaign, WWII.
Navigating through land mines and under fire, Townsend accompanied, instructed and encouraged his Soldiers as his battalion protected the 10th Mountain Division's exposed right flank during its final attack in the North Apennine Mountains of Italy. Shortly after reaching the objective, Townsend's vehicle was struck by German 88 mm anti-aircraft gunfire, wounding his driver.
Rosenberg took a few moments during the event to speak about Townsend's legacy.
"Today we are here to honor one of the very finest leaders from one of the first chapters in the division's history," Rosenberg said. "The Mission Training Complex will now be remembered by all Mountaineers for the legacy of the 2nd Battalion, 86th Mountain Infantry commander. His heroism and courageous leadership still inspires all."
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