William Coltman volunteered to join the British Army in 1915.
But once on the Western Front, the deeply religious Coltman realised that he couldn't bring himself to kill another man.
So he volunteered to become a stretcher bearer, going out into no mans land to rescue the wounded.
For the rest of the war he risked his life again and again to help the wounded.
For his bravery he was awarded the Victoria Cross..and also 2 Distinguished Conduct Medals and 2 Military Medals, making him the most decorated "other rank" British soldier in WW1.
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William Coltman volunteered to join the British Army in 1915.
But once on the Western Front, the deeply religious Coltman realised that he couldn't bring himself to kill another man.
So he volunteered to become a stretcher bearer, going out into no mans land to rescue the wounded.
For the rest of the war he risked his life again and again to help the wounded.
For his bravery he was awarded the Victoria Cross..and also 2 Distinguished Conduct Medals and 2 Military Medals, making him the most decorated "other rank" British soldier in WW1.
If you enjoy my work and want to know more about British history then please do sign up for my free weekly newsletter.
Get my weekly newsletter