I Saw Tragedy on a July Somme Dawn, by Yeoman Warder A H Cook | 1 July 1916 | Episode 124

The eventful hours of July 1, 1916, have seldom been more simply or forcefully described than by the author of the following episode, who on that day was serving as a Sergeant of the 1st Somersets of the 11th Brigade, 4th Division. This fine county regiment suffered appalling casualties, losing every officer, their warrant officers, all but seven sergeants, and 438 other ranks. Mr. Cook, who survived that tragic day, later enjoyed the honourable retirement of a Yeoman Warder of the Tower of London.

Yeoman Warder Cook served throughout the war, and at a later date than this action, for his part in which he received the personal congratulations of the Divisional Commander, he was awarded the D C.M. and the M.M.