Rear Admiral Philip Wilcocks CB, DSC, DL

I heard yesterday that Philip died on Easter Sunday. He was the most distinguished member of my Sep 71 Entry to BRNC and the first fellow-Cadet with whom I exchanged pleasantries on arrival at the College….we were next door neighbours in Jellicoe Cadet Division. He and I never served together subsequently but our paths crossed many times over the years. It did not surprise me that he achieved such war-fighting distinction in both the South Atlantic and Gulf or that he became the only one of our entry to reach Flag Rank. He was, from the very beginning, so obviously destined for high rank – a consummate Naval Officer, thoroughly dedicated and a brave leader when it mattered. I know that Peter Hore is penning the Obituary for the DT and that will contain mention of all of Philip’s achievements. A very sad loss for his family at such an early age.