COGGER, David John

Rank: 
Temporary Lieutenant
Unit / Base: 
'RM Engineer Commando'
Regiment/Corps: 
Royal Marines
Service: 
Royal Navy
Number: 
CH981
Honours & Awards: 
Lieutenant David Cogger was awarded the Military Cross for gallant and distinguished service while operating with the Army in Normandy [1]. He was an Officer in the 1st RM Engineer Commando from August 1943 until at least July 1945 [2]. At the time of his award he was assigned to Nos .9 and 10 Landing Craft Obstruction Clearance Units (LCOCU) [3].
Recommendation
Nos 9 and 10 Teams LCOCUs.
At 0730hrs on D Day 6 June 1944 this officer was in command of a party of the Royal Marine Commando. His orders were to destroy all obtacles under water in the Le Hamel sector. The party came under intense machine gun and 88mm fire from their immediate front on approaching the shore.
Lt Cogger maintained a complete indifference to enemy action, and in spite of extreme danger from under water explosions, carried on working in deep water placing the explosive charges himself. His extreme courage both in the face of enemy action and in heavy seas was an inspiration to his men.
His magnificent work removed the hidden obstacles and provided a safe lane for the following landing craft [3].
 
Sources
[1] London Gazette 36697, page 4218.
[2] Navy Lists - Bi Monthly Aug. Oct., Dec.'43; Feb., April, June, Oct.'44;
[2] Navy Lists - Quarterly Jan, Apr., July '45.
[3] National Archives file WO373/47/22.
 

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