Michael Denigan (16) recently published his second military history book with co-author Neil Thornton. The book, entitled The Victoria Crosses of Melvill and Coghill, was published by Barnthorn Publishing Company. His first military history book, Witnesses at Isandlwana: 22 January 1879, which was also co-authored with Neil Thornton, was published by Fonthill Media, in 2023. A third book, his first solo publication, is due in 2026.
Witnesses at Isandlwana: 22 January 1879 is about the British invasion of South Africa in 1879. The book contains the largest collection of survivor accounts ever compiled, as well as rare and unpublished photographs. The Victoria Crosses of Melvill and Coghill takes a closer look at two famous players lost at Isandlwana, Lieutenants Teignmouth Melvill and Nevill Coghill.
According to the publisher’s summary, “Melvill had died after attempting to save the Queen’s Colour of his battalion, and Coghill after returning into the fray to save his brother officer. ‘The Dash with the Colours’ featured in newspapers and magazines up and down Britain, propelling Melvill and Coghill into legend.”
Denigan and Thornton’s book helps dispel myths surrounding Melvill and Coghill and what happened the day they died. The book summary goes on to share: “Featuring unpublished letters and correspondence between the Coghill family, the War Office and the King amongst others, the authors also show just how and why Melvill and Coghill came to be awarded posthumous VCs some 28 years after they had lost their lives. The answers will shock and intrigue.”
Denigan has always had a passion for history and for public service. In addition to his historical writing career, Denigan serves as a police officer. He’s an active volunteer on the Star of India and for the San Diego Maritime Museum.
His third book, The Vanished Trio – The Disappearance of USS Ashevills, USS Edsall and USS Pillbury, also from Barnthorn Publishing Co., will investigate three ships lost in March 1942 during World War II, chronicling their service and ultimate defeat in the battles in which they were lost.
