A newspaper cutting with Its Daily Reminder during Second World War.

Corporal Andrew Rowan, listed above, was killed during the 7th/9 Royal Scots action to clear the Germans from Broedersbosch Forest during the 155 Infantry Brigade’s attack to capture Kasteel Blijenbeek, a fortress about two miles from the German frontier. It was the start of the British operation to break through the Siegfried Line; the fighting was fierce as the German troops defended their country’s borders. I served with Andrew Rowan when given command of 18 Platoon, ‘D’ Company. He had been with the British Expeditionary Force. I readily enlisted his experience in our training and promoted him Lance-Corporal. He was five years older than myself, and I admired and respected him as a natural leader with strong strength of character and saw him as a good man to have by your side. Sometime after I left the Platoon to be Battalion I.O., he was promoted to Corporal in command of a Section. The Battalion faced fierce fighting in Broedersbosch Forest, suffering heavily casualties, with the loss of 7 Royal Scots killed, 3 more died from their wounds and 30 other officers and men wounded. During the battle Corporal Andrew Rowan realising his officer was severely wounded and all the other NCOs casualties, he unhesitatingly took control and successfully led the Platoon forward to its objective. In this brave action of leadership, he was killed. It was terrible news to hear of his death. His leadership and bravery awarded by being ‘Mention in Despatches’ but worthy of the Distinguished Conduct Medal. I was proud to have known him: his courage and friendship warmly and proudly remembered and the loss of this fine Royal Scot ever mourned. Joe Brown.