Lieutenant-Colonel Edward Colville
2nd Battalion, Gordon Highlanders

There can be no doubt that the rapidity with which he assumed control in what might have been a most dangerous situation not only saved the lives of many men in his own Brigade but also ensured the success of the whole situation at a critical period in the battle.

(D.S.O. citation, 19 Oct 1944)

Born on 1 September 1905 in London, Edward Charles Colville was the son of Admiral Sir Stanley Colville (1861–1939). He was commissioned into the Gordon Highlanders in 1925 and was promoted to captain and adjutant in 1938. From 1932 to 1934 he posted to Ottawa where he served as aide-de-camp to Vere Ponsonby, 9th Earl of Bessborough, governor general of Canada.

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