Clifford Coffin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Clifford Coffin
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Major General Clifford Coffin
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| Born | 10 February 1870 |
| Died | 4 February 1959 (aged 88) |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
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Branch
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 British Army |
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Rank
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Major General |
| Unit | Royal Engineers |
| Commands | 25th Infantry Brigade |
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Conflicts
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| Awards |
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| Relations | Isaac Coffin (father) |
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Major General Clifford Coffin (born February 10, 1870 – died February 4, 1959) was a brave British Army officer. He received the Victoria Cross, which is the highest award for courage given to British and Commonwealth soldiers. It's given for showing amazing bravery when facing the enemy.
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Clifford Coffin's Early Life and Military Career
Clifford Coffin was born in Blackheath, London. His father, Isaac Coffin, was also a high-ranking military officer. Clifford went to special schools to prepare for a military career, including the Royal Military Academy, Woolwich.
He joined the Corps of Royal Engineers as a young officer. His first major experience in battle was during the Second Boer War. He was recognized for his good service there.
Becoming a War Hero in World War I
During the First World War, Clifford Coffin was 47 years old. He was a temporary brigadier general, which means he was a high-ranking officer leading a large group of soldiers called the 25th Infantry Brigade.
The Battle of Westhoek (1917)
On July 31, 1917, a very important event happened in Westhoek, Belgium. Coffin's brigade was trying to cross a difficult, marshy area near a stream called Hanebeek. They faced very heavy machine-gun and rifle fire from the enemy. His soldiers were struggling and had to take cover in shell-holes (holes made by exploding shells).
Even though the fighting was intense and he was in full view of the enemy, General Coffin showed incredible bravery. He walked calmly from one shell-hole to another. He gave advice to his soldiers and encouraged them just by being there. His actions made a huge difference to everyone around him.
Because of his amazing courage and leadership, his soldiers were able to hold their position. Many believed that his brave actions saved the day and prevented the line from being pushed back by the enemy. For this incredible act of courage, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
After the War and Legacy
After World War I, Clifford Coffin continued his military career. He became the Officer Commanding Troops in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). He also served as an aide-de-camp (a personal assistant) to King George V.
He eventually reached the rank of major general. He also became a Colonel Commandant for the Royal Engineers, which is a very important role.
Clifford Coffin passed away in February 1959. He is buried at Holy Trinity Churchyard in Colemans Hatch, East Sussex. His Victoria Cross medal is on display at the Royal Engineers Museum in Chatham, Kent. In 2012, his grave was restored by the Victoria Cross Trust, an organization that helps maintain the graves of Victoria Cross recipients.
Images for kids
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Major General Clifford Coffin
