Edwin Herbert Coleman enlisted at the age of 15 in the Canadian Mounted Rifles at Victoria, British Columbia on 8th December 1914.  Calling himself simply Herbert Coleman, he stated that he was born in Herefordshire on 15th July 1896 and was the step-son of Mr Frank Fear of Vernon, British Colombia.  His brother Charles William Coleman also joined the Canadian Mounted Rifles at the same time

He was a carpenter by trade and had left England for Canada in 1910 with his brother Charles and step-mother Sarah Fear.  Their stepfather Frank had already gone out to establish himself in the Dominion.

Herbert embarked for France with the 2nd CMR on 22nd September 1915.  In February 1916, his next of kin was changed to his uncle, Mr F Coleman who lived at Eastnor, Chester Road, Branksome Park, Bournemouth.  During March 1916 he was treated for oedema of the eyelid at No 3 Canadian Field Ambulance and No 13 General Hospital, Boulogne.  However he was discharged by the middle of the month and went on leave.

He served throughout the remainder of the year, being temporarily transferred to the 1st Canadian Field Ambulance.  He went on leave again in August 1917, but shortly after his return was killed in action during the Battle of Passchendaele on 10th October 1917. 

In his will he left all his property and effects to another uncle – Alfred Shenstone of 97 Barfield Street, Belgrave Road, Leicester.  His medals were sent to him in 1921.

CEF Papers