Military History

Harry died of Malignant Endocarditis at 9pm on 17th October 1918 at the Southern Military Hospital, Southmead, Bristol having previously been treated in Military Hospitals in Etaples, France and London. He had been wounded on two previous occassions.

He was awarded the Military Medal for his bravery in the field on 16th September 1916 during the Battle of the Somme.

Obitutary - Stratford Herald - Friday 25th October 1918
DIED OF SICKNESS - C.Q.M.S. H. G. SYMINGTON MM

After a distinguished military career Harry Gold Symington, only son of Mr. Sam Symington of High Street passed away last week at the 2nd Southern Military Hospital, Southmead, Bristol. A native of Leamington, he achieved much success in his earlier years in swimming. He won his first prize when only eight or nine years of age and this was followed by honours which made his name familiar in all swimming circles in the Midland Counties. To him fell the unique distinction of winning outright two silver challenge cups for the half mile championship of Warwickshire (each trophy having to be won three times before it became his property) and among numerous other prizes were gold medals won at Birmingham when he was the runner up on two occasions for the half mile championship of the Midland Counties. He was also a keen rifleman and was instrumental in founding a prosperous shooting club at Ilminster, Somerset. On two occasions he had the distinction of being a member of the team to compete in the county championship final at Bisley. Fifty medals in addition to other trophies, bear witness to his achievements in shooting and swimming.

When his country’s call came in August 1914 he joined Kitchener’s Army. He left for France in May 1915 as a corporal and the rapid promotion which attended him was solely due to his fine soldierly attributes and conspicuous service in the field. He was wounded on two occasions, but neither was of a serious nature. After three years stern campaigning his health gave way and he was sent to hospital at Etaples, where his father visited him.

At the end of July he was removed to London and about a month ago to the 2nd Southern Military Hospital at Southmead, Bristol. Unfortunately, his constitution was unable to withstand the ravages of three years’ active service and although the end came somewhat suddenly at nine o’clock on Thursday night it was not unexpected. He would have completed his forty-second year on Tuesday last.

To the bereaved father the sympathy of all Stratfordians will be extended. His cup of sorrow is full to overflowing. Nearly eighteen months ago his brother passed away to be followed at a brief interval by the tragic death of his talented daughter, Miss Mabel Symington. Another near relative to whom he was greatly attached sank to his rest shortly afterwards. On November 17th his son-in-law was killed in action after six weeks’ service in France and two days later his wife passed over to the great majority. Now he mourns the death of his only son.

The funeral took place at Arnos Vale cemetery on Wednesday. The first part of the service was held at the chapel attached to the Royal Bristol Infirmary and was conducted by the Vicar of St. Matthew’s Moorfields. The mourners were Mrs. H. G. Symington (widow), Mr. S. Symington (father), Mrs. Cobb (sister) Mr. F. Beer, Mr. Hoare and Miss Beer. Many beautiful wreaths were laid on the grave.