J Mead 10th Husrs

George Frederick Meads was born at Oxford in 1886. He was the son of James Meads, a cab proprietor, and his wife Mary. In 1891 the family lived at 'The Apollo' St Aldates St., Oxford but by 1901 they had moved to Bedford.

After he left school, George worked as a Billiard Marker. The life obviously didn't suit him as he ran away and joined the army in August, 1901 (he said he was 18 though he was only 15). He served eight years in the 10th Hussars, most of that time in India. He was appointed Lance Corporal in 1906. His record shows that he had passed both the second and first class Army Education Certificates - the level of education required to be commissioned from the ranks. He also passed the elementary exam in Pushtu - a language spoken in Afghanistan. During his service he was awarded two Good Conduct Badges.

After he left the Army in November 1909, George became a coal miner. He moved to Wales where, in 1911, he was working in Brithdir. He married Annie Cresswell at Bargoed in 1913. At sometime after this he moved to Highley where he was living at the outbreak of war.

George re-enlisted as a Private in the 10th Hussars but soon regained his stripes. He went to Belgium with his Regiment in October 1914 and fought during the Battle of Ypres. He died of wounds on 13th May, 1915 - probably sustained during the Battle of Frezenburg Ridge (11 - 13 May). He is buried in Vlamertinghe Military Cemetery, Belgium - a burial site used by fighting units and field ambulances.

Lance Corporal George Meads, 23749 (formerly 5171) 10th Hussars, was awarded the Victory and British War Medals and the 1914 Star.