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Levin Daily Chronicle, 16 October 1917, Page 4

Cable advice has been received that the Military Cross has been awarded to Lieut. W. W. Cook, of the New Zealand Forces and Flying Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and skill in attacking a Zeppelin. He ascended during a strong wind, thick mist, and lo.w clouds, but eventually gave up the attack when ! sixty miles out to sea. The return journey was hazardous, but he landed safely after five and a-half hours in the air. Lieut. Cook is a son of Mr W. Cook, of Palmerston North. He learned aviation at the Auckland Flying School. He left for England in January last. The news of his success will be read with pride and pleasure by the people of this district. Lieutenant Cook is a member of the Linton Rifle Club and was one of the best shots in the Manawatu district. His courage and determination has been exemplified on many occasions, and the news of his exploit will occasion no surprise amongst the people by whom he is known. In his last letter home Lieut. Cook stated that he was on duty with the Royal Flying Corps on the East Coast of Scotland, where, as he expressed it, they were engaged in "Zepp strafing."