The Cogan Family Tragedy

le Touret Memorial

Thursday 18th March 1915: We have learned with regret of the death of Private Philip George Cogan of the 2nd Bedfords at Neuve Chapelle on 12th March(1). His death is particularly poignant as he is the third son of Mr and Mrs Cogan of Albury, Hertfordshire, to die in this war. Two other sons, both sergeants, Alfred James and William John were both killed on the same day, 7th November 1914, with the 1st Battalion(2). Their fourth son, Private Charles Cogan of the 2nd Bedfords has been twice wounded(2).

Private Philip Cogan’s wife also lost her brother, Sergeant Thomas Hutchin of the 2nd Bedfords two days ago(3). These tragedies highlight how chance can deal crippling blows to any family at any time.

Source: Bedfordshire Times 23rd April 1915

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(1) Private Cogan was one of the party assisting Captain Foss to capture fifty German prisoners on 12th March, the rest of the party got the Distinguished Conduct Medal and Foss himself the Victoria Cross

(2) None of the men have any known grave and all are commemorated on the le Touret Memorial to the Missing.

(3) He is also commemorated on the le Touret Memorial