Period:

First World War (1914-1918)

Rank:

Second-Lieutenant

Awarded on:

June 18th, 1917

"For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. He conducted a daylight patrol with considerable skill. By his coolness and intelligence he was able to gain most valuable information, and succeeded in withdrawing his men without casualty."

Period:

First World War (1914-1918)

Bar, WW1

Period:

First World War (1914-1918)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

Headquarters, Force HQ Greece (W Force), British Army

Awarded on:

December 30th, 1941

"For excellent work in dealing with administrative and traffic difficulties both in ATHENS and at Forward H.Q. As Officer 1/c [of] one of the beaches during re-embarkation, his organisation, untiring energy and cheerful efficiency in dealing with the troops of various units was responsible for the success of the operation."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Major

Unit:

2nd Battalion Highland Light Infantry, 10th Indian Infantry Brigade, 5th Indian Infantry Division, British Indian Army

Awarded on:

September 24th, 1942

"During the night attack on Bir-en-Temar on the 5th June 1942 the Commanding Officer led the Battalion to its objective which was captured. At daylight when all Companies were under intense machine gun fire and artillery shelling, Colonel Thorburn with a complete disregard for his personal safety visited his forward Companies.

He continued throughout the remainder of the day energetically getting mortars and Anti-Tank guns into action wherever they were required and spotting enemy action without a thought of taking cover, even though enemy tanks were firing in his direction from within five hundred yards.

Colonel Thorburn was wounded in the head whilst standing on a tank, acting as an O.P., but in spite of his wound continued to command for the remainder of the time, till he realised that nothing further would be gained by keeping his Battalion in this exposed position and he reluctantly gave the order to retire.

He directed operations up to the final withdrawal, and was one of the last men to leave the position. By his leadership, stamina and untiring energy he was an inspiration and example to all ranks."

Period:

First World War (1914-1918)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)