Julius was born as one of six children in Athens, Missouri, on the 22nd of February 1881. He graduated from the US Naval Academy with the class of 1902 and was commissioned as an Ensign after the required two years of sea duty. Julius was a Lieutenant when he deployed to Mexico, and it was his actions there that would later earn him the Medal of Honor. The citation reads:

For distinguished conduct in battle, engagement of Vera Cruz, 22 April 1914. Lt. Townsend was eminent and conspicuous in command of his battalion. He exhibited courage and skill in leading his men through the action of the 22d and in the final occupation of the city.

Julius received the Medal of Honor on the 4th of December 1915, making him one of fifty-six to receive it for actions during the Mexican Campaign. He married Martha, with whom he had three children, and remained in the Navy, serving in World War 1. Julius also received the Navy Cross for actions in the waters near Nicaragua during an insurrection and retired as a Rear Admiral in 1939, after 37 years of service. Julius Curtis Townsend died on the 28th of December 1939, at the age of 58 and he is buried in Arlington National Cemetery: Section 6, Lot 8590.