Nevill Coghill (VC)

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Nevill Josiah Aylmer Coghill VC (25 January 1852–22 January 1879) was born in Drumcondra, Dublin and 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.

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[edit] Family

Coghill was the eldest son of Sir John Joscelyn Coghill, 4th Baronet (see Coghill Baronets), and his wife the Hon. Katherine Frances, daughter of John Plunket, 3rd Baron Plunket. The painter Sir Egerton Coghill, 5th Baronet, was his younger brother.

[edit] Details

He was 26 years old, and a Lieutenant in the 1st Battalion, 24th Regiment of Foot (later The South Wales Borderers), British Army during the Zulu War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.

On 22 January 1879 after the disaster of the Battle of Isandhlwana, South Africa, Lieutenant Coghill joined another officer (Teignmouth Melvill) who was trying to save the Queen's Colour of the Regiment. They were pursued by Zulu warriors and while crossing the swollen River Buffalo, Lieutenant Coghill went to the rescue of his brother officer, who had lost his horse and was in great danger. The two men were eventually overtaken by the enemy and following a short but gallant struggle, both were killed.

[edit] The medal

His Victoria Cross is displayed at the South Wales Borderers Museum (Brecon, Powys, Wales).

[edit] See also

[edit] External links