Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

"GALLANTRY REWARDED. UNIQUE DISTINCTION WON BY VICTORIAN CORPORAL

To gain the Distinguished Conduct Medal, the Medaille Militaire, and be mentioned in despatches four times, is a a rare distinction. This is the record of No. 805 Corporal George D. Cook, D.C.M., of the 2nd Field Artillery Brigade. Enlisting on the outbreak of war, he left here on October 20, 1914, as a a bombardier. On the voyage from Albany to Egypt a collision occurred in the night, and for gallant conduct he was awarded a stripe and congratulated. After further training in Egypt he was at the landing of Gallipoli. For conspicuous gallantry under heavy shell fire, in re-establishing a communication when telephone wires were cut, Corporal Cook was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal. In this stunt he was seriously wounded, and sent to Mena Hospital. After recovering from his wounds he was transferred to France, and was mentioned in despatches on January 28, 1916, for conspicuous service there. On February 22, 1916, he was awarded the Medaille Militaire in recognition of distinguished services. On July 11, 1916, Corporal Cook again came under the notice of his officers, and was mentioned in despatches (the fourth time) for disinguished and gallant services rendered. From his boyhood this Victorian hero had a liking for the military, being a member of the Geelong Cadets at the age of 12. He later became a member of the Mounted Cadets at Clifton Hill, under Captain A. Rushall, afterwards joining the Field Artillery at Windsor. He is 27 years of age, and the son of Mr G. C. Cook, the president of the Oaklelgh Bowling Club.." - from the Melbourne Herald 16 Mar 1918 (nla.gov.au)