Edgar Christopher Cookson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edgar Christopher Cookson
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| Born | 13 December 1883 Tranmere, Cheshire |
| Died | 28 September 1915 (aged 31) † near Kut, Mesopotamia |
| Buried |
Amara War Cemetery, Iraq
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 Royal Navy |
| Rank | Lieutenant-Commander |
| Unit | HMS Comet |
| Battles/wars | Boxer Rebellion World War I † |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Distinguished Service Order |
Lieutenant-Commander Edgar Christopher Cookson was a very brave English sailor. He received the Victoria Cross (VC) and the Distinguished Service Order (DSO). The Victoria Cross is the highest and most respected award for amazing courage. It is given to soldiers, sailors, and airmen in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. Cookson earned this special medal for his incredible bravery during World War I.
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Who Was Edgar Cookson?
Edgar Christopher Cookson was born on December 13, 1883. His father was also a naval officer, Captain W. E. Cookson. Edgar grew up in Tranmere, England. From a young age, he was likely interested in a life at sea, following in his father's footsteps.
A Life at Sea
Cookson joined the Royal Navy, the United Kingdom's navy. He became an officer and served in different parts of the world. Before World War I, he even took part in the Boxer Rebellion. This was a conflict in China around 1900. His early career showed he was a dedicated and skilled naval officer.
Bravery in World War I
When World War I began in 1914, Cookson was a Lieutenant-Commander. This rank is a senior officer in the navy. He was given command of a ship called HMS Comet. This ship was a river gunboat. It was designed to operate on rivers, not the open ocean.
The Tigris River Battle
In 1915, HMS Comet was operating on the Tigris River. This river is in a region called Mesopotamia, which is now part of Iraq. British forces were advancing towards a town called Kut-el-Amara. This was a very important battle during the war.
On September 28, 1915, Cookson and his crew faced a difficult challenge. Their ship, HMS Comet, was trying to clear a path on the river. The enemy had put up strong barriers and were firing heavily. Cookson showed amazing leadership and courage.
Earning the Victoria Cross
During the intense fighting, Cookson left the safety of his ship. He led a small team to try and cut through the enemy's barriers. This was extremely dangerous. He was directly exposed to enemy fire. Despite the danger, he kept going, trying to complete his mission.
Sadly, during this brave act, Lieutenant-Commander Cookson was shot multiple times. He died within minutes, giving his life for his country. His actions that day were seen as the highest form of gallantry. For this incredible bravery, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
What is the Victoria Cross?
The Victoria Cross is the highest military award for bravery. It is given for "most conspicuous bravery, or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy." It was created by Queen Victoria in 1856. The medal itself is made from bronze. It is said to be made from the metal of captured Russian cannons.
Legacy
Lieutenant-Commander Edgar Christopher Cookson is remembered as a true hero. His name is on the list of brave individuals who received the Victoria Cross. He is buried at the Amara War Cemetery in Iraq. His story continues to inspire people about courage and sacrifice.
