George Edward Cates

George Edward Cates VC (9 May 1892 – 8 March 1917) was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

George Edward Cates
BornMay 9, 1892
Wimbledon, London
DiedMarch 8, 1917(1917-03-08) (aged 24)
Bouchavesnes, France
Buried
Hem Farm Military Cemetery, Hem-Monacu
Allegiance United Kingdom
Service/branch British Army
RankSecond Lieutenant
UnitThe Rifle Brigade (Prince Consort's Own)
Battles/warsWorld War I
AwardsVictoria Cross

Cates was born on 9 May 1892 to George and Alice Ann Cates, of Wimbledon, London.[1]

He was 24 years old, and a second lieutenant in the 2nd Battalion, The Rifle Brigade (Prince Consort's Own), British Army during the First World War, and was awarded the VC for his actions on 8 March 1917 at Bouchavesnes, France during which he was killed.

Citation

For most conspicuous bravery and self-sacrifice. When engaged with some other men in deepening a captured trench this officer struck with his spade a buried bomb, which immediately started to burn. 2nd Lt. Gates, in order to save the lives of his comrades, placed his foot on the bomb, which immediately exploded. He showed the most conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty in performing the act which cost him his life, but saved the lives of others

— London Gazette, dated 11 May 1917[2]

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum, Winchester, England.

Wimbledon War Memorial plaque to Second Lieutenant George Cates
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References
  1. Cates, George Edward, Commonwealth War Graves Commission
  2. "No. 30064". The London Gazette (Supplement). 11 May 1917. p. 4587.


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