| Regimental number | 23/9 |
| Address | Khandallah, Wellington |
| Marital status | Single |
| Next of kin | Father, Edward Cowles, Khandallah, Wellington |
| Rank on embarkation | Lieutenant |
| Enlistment status | Volunteer |
| Final rank | Major |
| Final unit | 4th Battalion, New Zealand Rifle Brigade |
| Recommendations (Medals and Awards) |
Mention in Despatches 'For conspicuous good work as Officer Commanding Brigade School. This Officer is the best instructor in the Brigade and the successful results of his work have been most marked. He is one of my most valuable Officers whose service I cannot too highly commend.' Awarded, and promulgated, 'London Gazette', 28 December 1917. |
| Fate | Killed in Action |
| Age at death from cemetery records | 31 |
| Place of burial | The Huts Cemetery (Plot XIV, Row D, Grave No 19), Ieper, Belgium |
| Miscellaneous information from cemetery records | Parents: Edward and Sarah Cowles, Richmond, Nelson, New Zealand. Served in Samoa. Fought in three engagements against Senussi on Western Frontier of Egypt. Had charge of Officers' Training Class at Etaples |
| Medals |
Military Cross 'For conspicuous gallantry when leading a raid on the enemy's trenches. Thirty-three of the enemy were killed and useful identifications secured. Mainly owing to his skill and resource only seven of his men were wouded.'
Source: 'London Gazette' Date: |
| Other details | Medals: Military Cross, 1914-15 Star, British War Medal, Victory Medal |
| Miscellaneous details | Nominal Roll Vol. 1: /Samoan Adv & 1st NZRB |