George Cockburn

George Cockburn was the son of Admiral J H Cockburn. He was commissioned in the 80th Foot [later 2nd Battalion South Staffordshire Regiment] from the Militia on 11 November 1876, but transferred within little over a month to the Rifle Brigade. As befitted a Greenjacket, he established himself as a specialist in rifle training. He was Instructor of Musketry Rifle Brigade (August 1880–March 1883) and District Inspector of Musketry, Eastern District (July 1896–January 1898). He was also Adjutant 2nd Battalion Rifle Brigade (April 1884–March 1889).

Cockburn served on the Nile Expedition (1898) and commanded 2nd Rifle Brigade in the South African War (August 1900–October 1901), in which he was three times mentioned in despatches. He commanded 3rd Rifle Brigade from October 1901 until October 1905.

He had been retired for nearly eight years when the European War broke out, but he was instantly recalled and appointed AA&QMG 1st London Division, TF. On 31 October 1914 he was given command of 43rd Brigade, 14th (Light) Division, then in the process of formation. He was 58.

Cockburn was responsible for 43rd Brigade’s training, but he also deployed with it to France in May 1915. He was replaced on 3 August and sent home, where he was Commander 18th Reserve Brigade, Ripon Camp and Tay Defences (September 1915–November 1916). He retired for the second time in November 1916.