Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

3rd Parachute Battalion, 1st Parachute Brigade, 1st Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

September 23rd, 1943

For services in North Africa.
This Officer has commanded his Battalion with skill and gallantry throughout the campaign and by his example has been an inspiration to all ranks. Flying out from the U.K., he led his command with the utmost gallantry during the Parachute drop on BONE Aerodrome. Distinguishing himself at the battle for GREEN HILL (SEDJENANE sector) in January 1943 whilst under command of the 36 Brigade, he earned praise from the Commander for his energetic devotion to duty and daring reconnaissance’s. Again at BOU ARADA on the 26th February 1943 he gallantly led his Battalion in the most successful defence of the Sector, during which enormous casualties were inflicted on the enemy and many prisoners captured. Whilst the Brigade was operating in the TAMERA Sector he again distinguished himself by the handling of his Battalion during the enemy and our own attacks.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

7th (Light Infantry) Parachute Battalion, 5th Parachute Brigade, 6th Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

August 31st, 1944

Awarded for:

Operation Deadstick

For his command of the Caen Canal "Pegasus" bridge's defence on 6 June 1944.
Lieutenant Colonel Pine Coffin landed by parachute with his battalion behind the enemy lines on 6th June 1944. He was in command of the Western bridgehead over the CAEN CANAL at BENOUVILLE. His battalion held this bridgehead against superior strength, including self-propelled guns, for 21 hours until they were finally relieved by the seaborne forces. He displayed great courage, coolness, leadership and skill throughout the operation and was an inspiration to all under his command.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

7th (Light Infantry) Parachute Battalion, 6th Airlanding Brigade, 6th Airborne Division, British Army

Awarded on:

June 21st, 1945

In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in North-West Europe
On 27 March 1945, Pine-Coffin sustained severe wounds on his face during the Battle of Hamminkeln. Despite this, he refused to leave his post and kept encouriging his men, resulting in his battalion repelling all German counter-attacks.
During the airborne operations for crossing the RHINE on 24 March 1945, Lieutenant-Colonel PINE-COFFIN landed by parachute with his battalion in the vicinity of HAMMINKELN. His task was to hold a covering position and protect the dropping zone while the remainder of the Brigade secured the main objectives.
The landings were accomplished in the face of very heavy opposition from flak and ground defences. The positions to be occupied by Lieutenant-Colonel PINE-COFFIN were held by strong enemy forces supported by 88mm guns.
By outstanding leadership and skill Lieutenant-Colonel PINE-COFFIN rallied his battalion and totally disregarding the heavy fire and his own personal safety directed his battalion on to their objectives.
During this engagement he was severely wounded in the face but he refused to leave his post for treatment and continued to move freely about his locality encouraging the men and adjusting their dispositions.
Inspired by their Colonel's outstanding example and gallantry, his battalion held their isolated position in the face of strongly pressed counter attacks until the brigade objective was completely secured and consolidated, after which he was called on to withdraw into it which he did successfully bringing large numbers of prisoners with him.
The magnificent leadership and bravery of Lieutenant-Colonel PINE-COFFIN had played a vital part in the success of the Brigade operation.

Second DCO received as bar.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Temporary Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

7th (Light Infantry) Parachute Battalion, 5th Parachute Brigade, XXXIV Corps, British Army

Awarded on:

September 19th, 1946

Awarded for:

Operation Zipper

For services in Birma.

Rank:

Lieutenant-Colonel

Unit:

1st Battalion The Devonshire Regiment

Awarded on:

December 13th, 1949

In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Malaya during the period
1st January, 1949—30th June, 1949.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)