Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temp. Lt. Col.

Unit:

2/22nd Australian Infantry Battalion, Australian Army

Awarded on:

December 23rd, 1943

For gallant & distinguished services in S.W.P. Area.

Posthumously awarded

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant Colonel

Unit:

2/22nd Australian Infantry Battalion, Australian Army

Awarded on:

November 23rd, 1944

"or extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy, in action against enemy forces near Kokoda, New Guinea, on 27 July 1942. While commanding the 39th Australian Infantry Battalion, which was opposing the enemy advance, Lieutenant Colonel Owen, although facing far superior numbers of enemy troops, directed his men so effectively as to extract a heavy toll of the enemy forces and considerably delay their advance. His courageous and inspiring personal example was in great measure responsible for this vigorous opposition to the enemy attack. Lieutenant Colonel Owen was seriously wounded in this action and later died of his wounds."

Headquarters: South West Pacific Area, General Orders No. 11. Posthumously awarded