William Cockburn (cavalry officer)

William Cockburn was a British Army officer who served primarily in cavalry regiments during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Details of his early life and parentage are somewhat scarce, a common challenge in researching officers of that era who were not members of the peerage or otherwise exceptionally prominent.

Cockburn’s military career saw him progress through the ranks, eventually achieving field rank. He is known to have served during the Napoleonic Wars, though specific details of his service, such as battles he participated in or specific roles he held, are not widely documented. Further research in regimental histories, period army lists, and private papers held in archives would be needed to provide a more comprehensive account of his service.

Cockburn's name appears in various military records of the period, documenting promotions and postings. However, distinguishing him from other individuals with the same or similar names can prove challenging without more definitive biographical information. More information on William Cockburn can potentially be found in the National Archives (UK), regimental archives of cavalry units serving during the Napoleonic Wars, and through genealogical research.