John Coughlan

Born in Cork, Ireland, he was a wheelwright before he joined the 68 Light Infantry in February 1840, aged 17 years. He deserted after two months and was not caught until 1842. After his release from prison, he served with the 68 LI until discharged in 1861 with "general debility induced by length of service in various climates". In the Crimea, John Coughlan won the Distinguished Conduct Medal and was promoted to Sergeant for his bravery on 12 January 1855, during a Russian sortie from Sebastopol.