Fred was educated at Buckingham Street, Hull, and became a Case Maker by trade. He enlisted on 9th June 1915, then entered the war in France in July 1916. His Major wrote that he was a very gallant fellow, always cheerful and brave. Fred was the second son of Fred (a bookmaker) and Elizabeth (daughter of Thomas Harrison Bartholowmew) Coupland of 13 Craven Street, Holderness Road, Hull.