William J. Cowen's illustrious military career commenced in the esteemed Canadian Expeditionary Force during the tumultuous First World War, where he proudly served as an infantryman within the 5th Canadian Mounted Rifles, before later transferring to the esteemed Fort Garry Horse, a prestigious cavalry regiment.
As he navigated the hierarchical structure of the military organization, Cowen's exceptional leadership skills and unwavering dedication to duty propelled him forward, ultimately leading to his appointment as Lieutenant, a prestigious title that is synonymous with excellence and distinction.
Notable among his numerous accomplishments was the prestigious award of the Military Cross, a testament to his unwavering bravery and unshakeable resolve, which he received in recognition of his extraordinary heroism during the pivotal and intense Battle of Cambrai, a pivotal moment in the Great War, which took place on the 20th day of November, 1917.
After the conclusion of the war, James Cowen embarked on a journey to Russia, possibly as a representative of the United States government, where he unfortunately found himself in the unfortunate predicament of being captured by the Bolsheviks.
Notorious author and war veteran, Cowen, devoted himself to a life of literary pursuits upon his return to the United States, pouring his heart and soul into the creation of numerous esteemed books and short stories.
His magnum opus, the thought-provoking and deeply personal "Man With Four Lives", was a testament to the profound impact of his experiences during the war in France, where he witnessed firsthand the horrors of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.
In addition to this critically acclaimed work, Cowen also penned the gripping and emotionally charged "They Gave Him a Gun", a narrative that skillfully wove together the threads of his own life and the lives of those around him, creating a rich tapestry of drama and intrigue.
William Joseph Cowen, a lieutenant of unyielding courage and unwavering commitment to duty, received the esteemed Military Cross, a prestigious honor bestowed upon him by King George V, in recognition of his extraordinary bravery and selfless dedication during the tumultuous events of November 20, 1917, at Cambrai.
As the second-in-command of his squadron, Cowen displayed unrelenting valor as they charged headlong into the fray, targeting an enemy battery situated a daunting two miles behind the front lines. Despite sustaining a severe wound, Cowen's indomitable spirit and unshakeable resolve propelled him forward, as he led his men in a daring assault, ultimately emerging victorious with the capture of six enemy prisoners.
This remarkable feat, a testament to Cowen's unyielding bravery and unwavering commitment to duty, earned him the distinguished Military Cross, a symbol of his unshakeable dedication to the cause and an enduring reminder of his remarkable achievements on the battlefield.
