George Symonds VC DCM
We also remember George Symons a recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
He was awarded Victoria Cross, Distinguished Conduct Medal, Légion d’honneur (France), Medal of Military Valour (Sardinia)
http://www.vconline.org.uk/george-symons-vc/4588315903
George Symons was born in South Hill parish on the 18th March 1826 and baptised on the 2nd April 1826 at St Sampson’s Church. Son of William a farm labourer, and Anne Symons, living at Lower Trewassick with their daughter Mary Ann. (William possibly born 1760 and died in 1842).
The 1841 census shows George aged 15, living with a Blacksmith called Widger and his family at The Lodge which appears to be connected to Manaton Mill. The other various properties surveyed at Manaton Mill were: Manaton Mill, which contained three dwellings containing the miller and family, and 2 agricultural labourers and families; a property listed as Shop where a farmer and his children lived with 3 agricultural labourers, and Higher Ford where a farmer and his family lived.
George enlisted in the Royal Artillery on the 29th June 1845 and by the 1st January 1853 he had been promoted to the rank of Sergeant.’ The act of his gallantry for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross was on 6th June 1855. He recovered from his wounds and was later commissioned into the Military Train, transferred back to the Royal Artillery in 1862 and reached the rank of Captain. On 15 January 1862 he was appointed Adjutant of the 1st Administrative Brigade of Yorkshire (East Riding) Artillery Volunteers.
He retired to Yorkshire, where on 18th November 1871 he died in Bridlington, aged 45 years. He was buried in the churchyard of Bridlington Priory. His medals are held by the Royal Logistic Corps Museum, Camberley, Surrey.
An amazing life for the son of an agricultural labourer: Arising from his act of gallantry, he was commissioned at a time when officers were almost exclusively upper class, and eventually reached the rank of Captain.