William Richard Cotter facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Richard Cotter
VC
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| Born | March 1882 Folkestone, Kent |
| Died | 14 March 1916 (aged 34) Lillers Hospital, France |
| Buried |
Lillers Communal Cemetery
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Years of service | – 1916 |
| Rank | Acting Corporal |
| Unit | The Buffs (East Kent Regiment) |
| Battles/wars | World War I
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| Awards | Victoria Cross |
William Richard Cotter (born March 1882 – died March 14, 1916) was an English soldier. He received the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for bravery given to British and Commonwealth soldiers. It is given for amazing courage when facing the enemy.
William Cotter was born in Folkestone, Kent, England, in 1882. His parents were Richard and Amy Cotter. His father worked as a plasterer's helper.
William Cotter was 33 years old during World War I. He was an Acting Corporal in the 6th Battalion of The Buffs (East Kent Regiment). He was part of the British Army. He earned his Victoria Cross for an incredibly brave act.
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What Was William Cotter's Brave Act?
On March 6, 1916, near a place called Hohenzollern Redoubt in France, Corporal Cotter was badly hurt. His leg was blown off at the knee, and both of his arms were wounded. Even with these terrible injuries, he did not give up.
He managed to move about 50 yards by himself to a large hole in the ground, called a crater. There, he found other soldiers who were holding their position. He helped them stay calm and organized their defense. He told them where to shoot and how to move to prepare for a new enemy attack.
Corporal Cotter held his position for two hours. He only allowed his wounds to be quickly bandaged after the fighting had calmed down. He could not be moved to safety for 14 hours. During all this time, he kept a positive attitude and spoke cheerfully to everyone around him.
Where Is William Cotter Buried?
William Cotter was buried in the Lillers Communal Cemetery in France. This cemetery is about seven miles northwest of a town called Bethune. His grave is in Plot IV, Row E, Grave 45.
Where Can You See His Victoria Cross?
William Cotter's Victoria Cross was once shown at The Buffs Regimental Museum in Canterbury, England. Now, all the items from that museum have been moved. His medal is now on display at the National Army Museum in London.
A company called The Amazing Brewery Co. makes a special beer to honor him. It is called "Amazing Cotter VC." This brewery is located in Sandgate, Folkestone.
Images for kids
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William Richard Cotter
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William Cotter's medals and cap badge
