William Coffey (VC) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Coffey
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|
|---|---|
| Born | 5 August 1829 Knocklong, County Limerick |
| Died | 13 July 1875 (aged 45) Chesterfield, Derbyshire |
| Buried |
Spital cemetery, Chesterfield
|
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 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 was an Irish soldier born on August 5, 1829, in Knocklong, County Limerick. He is famous for receiving the Victoria Cross (VC), which is the highest award for bravery given to soldiers in the British and Commonwealth forces. He also received the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM), another important award for courage.
Contents
William Coffey: A Brave Soldier
William Coffey was a private in the 34th Regiment of the British Army. This unit later became known as The Border Regiment. He showed incredible bravery during the Crimean War, a big conflict that happened in the mid-1800s.
His Amazing Act of Bravery
On March 29, 1855, during the Siege of Sevastopol in the Crimea, Private Coffey was 25 years old. A dangerous live shell, which is like a small bomb, landed in a trench where many soldiers were. Without thinking about his own safety, Private Coffey quickly picked up the shell. He then threw it over the wall of the trench, called a parapet. This quick action saved the lives of many of his fellow soldiers. Because of this brave deed, he was awarded the Victoria Cross.
Life After the War
After the Crimean War, William Coffey continued his military service. He was sent to India to fight in the Indian Mutiny. During his time in the army, he was promoted and reached the rank of sergeant.
William Coffey passed away on July 13, 1875, at the age of 45, in Chesterfield, Derbyshire. He was buried in Spital cemetery in Chesterfield. Years later, in 1970, a special stone was placed on his grave by the Border Regiment to honor his bravery and service.
Where to See His Medal
Today, William Coffey's Victoria Cross is on display for everyone to see. You can find it at Cumbria's Museum of Military Life, which is located in Carlisle Castle, Cumbria, England.
Images for kids
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Coffey's gravestone
