Charles Harry Coverdale facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Harry Coverdale
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| Born | 21 April 1888 Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England |
| Died | 20 November 1955 (aged 67) Huddersfield, Yorkshire |
| Buried |
Edgerton Cemetery, Huddersfield
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| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 British Army |
| Rank | Second Lieutenant |
| Unit | The Manchester Regiment |
| Battles/wars | World War I |
| Awards | Victoria Cross Military Medal |
Charles Harry Coverdale was a very brave English soldier. He was born on April 21, 1888, in Old Trafford, England. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for bravery. This special medal is given to soldiers from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries. It honors those who show amazing courage when facing the enemy.
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A Hero of World War I
Charles Harry Coverdale served in the British Army during World War I. He was a sergeant in the 11th Battalion, The Manchester Regiment. This was a very important time in history, and soldiers like him showed incredible courage.
What is the Victoria Cross?
The Victoria Cross, often called the VC, is the most important award for bravery. It is given to soldiers who show amazing courage in battle. It's a very rare medal, and only the bravest soldiers receive it. It shows that a soldier acted with incredible courage and selflessness.
His Amazing Bravery
On October 4, 1917, Sergeant Coverdale was fighting near Poelcapelle, Belgium. His unit was close to their goal. First, he bravely dealt with three enemy snipers. These snipers were hidden marksmen who could cause a lot of trouble.
After that, he quickly attacked two enemy machine-gun nests. He fought the enemy teams there, either killing or wounding them. This was a very dangerous act, as machine guns are powerful weapons.
Later, he quickly organized his platoon, which is a small group of soldiers. He wanted them to capture another enemy position. They got within 100 yards of it, but had to stop. Their own side's artillery fire, called a barrage, was falling too close. So, they had to go back for a short time.
Facing the Enemy Again
Sergeant Coverdale did not give up. Later, he went out again with just five other men. Their goal was to capture the same enemy position. But then, he saw a large number of enemy soldiers advancing towards them.
Even though they were outnumbered, he stayed calm. He carefully pulled his small group back, one man at a time. He made sure every soldier was safe. Sergeant Coverdale himself was the very last one to retreat. This showed his great leadership and care for his men.
After the War
For his incredible bravery, Charles Harry Coverdale was awarded the Victoria Cross. He also received the Military Medal. After the war, he continued his service. He later achieved the rank of second lieutenant in The Manchester Regiment. Charles Harry Coverdale passed away on November 20, 1955, at the age of 67. He is remembered as a true hero.
