William Coltman

William Harold Coltman was an English recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that could be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. Serving with the British Army during the First World War, he became the most decorated other rank of the conflict. He served with exceptional bravery as a stretcher bearer, demonstrating an absolute indifference to danger that saved numerous lives under intense fire.

Throughout his service, Coltman repeatedly put himself in extreme peril to rescue wounded soldiers. His actions in February 1917, July 1917, and June 1917 earned him the Military Medal and Bar, as well as the Distinguished Conduct Medal. He continually volunteered to search no man's land and front-line sectors under heavy artillery and machine-gun fire to ensure no wounded men were left behind.

In September 1918, near the St. Quentin Canal, Coltman earned a Bar to his Distinguished Conduct Medal by tirelessly dressing and carrying wounded men without rest or sleep. His fearlessness, devotion to duty, and outstanding gallantry earned him the Victoria Cross shortly thereafter, cementing his legacy as one of the most remarkable non-commissioned heroes in British military history.