Simons, S (Samuel)

Private Samuel Simons was from Armagh and was serving with the 3rd Reserve Battalion, Royal Irish Fusiliers. His next of kin was his mother Sarah Ann.

Samuel was admitted to hospital suffering from ascending paralysis which started with his feet and moved up through his body. After three days and six hours it reached his chest and he passed away.

The 3rd Reserve Battalion, Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers was based in Ebrington Barracks, Londonderry from September 1914 until April 1918 when it moved to England.

Their duties were to recruit and train soldiers for the front line. They alone recruited and trained more than twelve thousand men.

Throughout the war the 3rd had the same commander who was Lieutenant Colonel McClintock. He retired in 1919 when the battalion was disbanded.

On a few occasions, they had to host hundreds of shipwrecked sailors, including those from the Brisk (sunk October 1917) and the American transport ship SS Tuscania (sunk February 1918.) They received praise and gifts for their hospitality on both occasions.

Samuel was not eligible for any medals as he never left the UK or entered a theatre of war.

Date of Death: 10/12/1914 (Aged 19)

Service: Private, Royal Irish Fusiliers, 3rd Battalion

Service Number: 5780

Burial Location: Londonderry (or Derry), City Cemetery, GA. Mil. 24.