William Coffey

For the Irish cricketer, see William Coffey (cricketer).
William Coffey
Born 5 August 1829
Knocklong, County Limerick
Died 13 July 1875 (aged 45)
Chesterfield, Derbyshire
Buried at Spital cemetery, Chesterfield
Allegiance  United Kingdom
Service/branch British Army
Rank Sergeant
Unit 34th Regiment of Foot
Battles/wars Crimean War
Indian Mutiny
Awards Victoria Cross
Distinguished Conduct Medal
Médaille militaire

William Coffey VC DCM (5 August 1829 – 13 July 1875), born in Knocklong, County Limerick, was an Irish 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.

Details

He was 25 years old, and a private in the 34th Regiment (later The Border Regiment), British Army during the Crimean War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 29 March 1855 at Sebastopol, the Crimea, Private Coffey threw a live shell, which had fallen into a trench, over the parapet and thus saved many lives.[1]

Further information

Coffey's gravestone

Coffey was posted to Indian fighting in the Indian Mutiny. He achieved the rank of sergeant. It was reported that he died by suicide (shot himself) in the Army drill shed Sheffield, 13 July 1875. However his death certificate shows he died of dysentery at Stonegravels, Chesterfield. He was buried in Spital cemetery, Chesterfield. Originally he was buried in an unmarked, common plot but in 1970 a stone, provided by the Border Regiment, was put on his grave following a service.

The medal

His Victoria Cross is displayed at The King's Own Royal Border Regiment Museum Carlisle Castle, Cumbria, England.

References

  1. ↑ The London Gazette: no. 21971. p. 659. 24 February 1857.

Listed in order of publication year

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