Thomas Erpingham

Sir Thomas Erpingham (* 1357, † 1428 ) was an English knight. He commanded the reign of Henry V. the archers during the battle of Agincourt.

Thomas Erpinghams military career meant that he fought in several countries. He was a member of the Anglo- Welsh troops in several campaigns during the Hundred Years War, served in Spain, Scotland, Prussia and the Holy Land. His military career spans a period of almost fifty years and is closely linked to the House of Lancaster. John of Gaunt, 1st Duke of Lancaster elevated him to knighthood. Thomas Erpingham was also involved in the invasion of Aquitaine under Edward of Woodstock, accompanied Henry IV of England before his accession to Lithuania and Prussia from 1392 to Jerusalem. His military career ended with the Battle of Agincourt.

In William Shakespeare's play Henry V Thomas Erpingham is portrayed as a wise old military leader, who in the fearful night before the battle of Agincourt ascribes the young English king courage.