World War I Victoria Cross Medal Recipient. He served as a Lieutenant with the Victoria Australian Imperial Forces. In the early stages of World War I, he was involved in actions with the Turks at Gallipoli, on August 9, 1915. The Turks made a series of determined attacks on the trenches at Lone Pine where six Australian officers were killed or severely wounded. Learning that the position had been overrun, Lieutenant Symons was ordered to retake the trench. He led the charge that drove off the Turks, but the enemy continued attacking from the front and both flanks. He then reopened the trench and was able to establish a new barricade. Although the Turks set fire to the overhead woodwork, Lieutenant Symons extinguished the flames, kept the barricade in place and finally forced the enemy to discontinue their attacks. For conspicuous gallantry, he received the Victoria Cross Medal from King George V at Buckingham Palace in December, 1915. He remained in the Army and later achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
World War I Victoria Cross Medal Recipient. He served as a Lieutenant with the Victoria Australian Imperial Forces. In the early stages of World War I, he was involved in actions with the Turks at Gallipoli, on August 9, 1915. The Turks made a series of determined attacks on the trenches at Lone Pine where six Australian officers were killed or severely wounded. Learning that the position had been overrun, Lieutenant Symons was ordered to retake the trench. He led the charge that drove off the Turks, but the enemy continued attacking from the front and both flanks. He then reopened the trench and was able to establish a new barricade. Although the Turks set fire to the overhead woodwork, Lieutenant Symons extinguished the flames, kept the barricade in place and finally forced the enemy to discontinue their attacks. For conspicuous gallantry, he received the Victoria Cross Medal from King George V at Buckingham Palace in December, 1915. He remained in the Army and later achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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