William Bertram COOKE

Regimental number3/96
Address93 Todman Street, Brooklyn, Wellington
Marital statusMarried
Next of kinWife, Mrs Elizabeth Cooke, c/o Mrs Leckner, 66 Epuni Street off Aro Street, Wellington
Rank on embarkationPrivate
Enlistment statusVolunteer
Unit nameNew Zealand Expeditionary Force, Main Body, Ambulance
Embarkation detailsUnit embarked from Wellington on board Star of India on 16 October 1914
Final rank2nd Lieutenant
Final unit2nd Battalion, Wellington Infantry Regiment
Medals

Bar to Military Medal

'During the operations on the Somme on 16th September 1916 he showed great courage and presence of mind in conducting his bearer parties through heavy fire. By his example of bravery and self sacrifice during the period he succeeded in bringing in many wounded men who would otherwise have been lost.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 6 January 1917

Military Medal

'At Cape Helles on May 8th and 9th 1915 showed conspicuous gallantry in carrying several messages from the Field Ambulance Dressing Station to Brigade Headquarters over an exposed position each time under heavy artillery and rifle fire.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 11 October 1916

Military Cross

'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty on 1st October, 1918, near Crevecoeur, in the command of the flank platoon in an attack. When the company became isolated by an enemy counter attack, he hung on with his platoon in a most exposed position. He went about among his men encouraging them through this most critical period, and his personal example was responsible for the fine stand they made.'
Source: London Gazette
Date: 1 February 1919

Miscellaneous detailsNominal Roll Vol. 1: Ambulance/Main Body