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08/09/1891 - 24/11/1916

Place of birth: Bolton, Lancashire
Last known address in Bromley: 59 Plaistow Lane

Military information

Regiment/Service: Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve
Battalion/Ship: Howe Bn Lobster
Rank: Lieutenant
Number: Unknown
Awards: Military Cross

Family information

Parents: Richard & Louisa Mary Airey (nee Ryder)
Parents' occupation: General Manager, British Petroleum
Siblings: Annie Ryder, Florence Marion, Richard Ryder, Louisa Ryder

Census information

1901
Address: 59 Plaistow Lane
1911
Address: 59 Plaistow Lane
Occupation: Commercial Clerk

Extra details

George was baptised on 25th October 1891 at St Saviour Church Everton, Lancs, the eldest child of Richard and Louisa Mary Airey. He was a pupil at Quernmore School and left there to complete his education in Germany. Returning from Germany he joined his father at the British Petroleum Company.

At the outbreak of war George, who had already spent four years in the Naval Volunteer Reserve, enlisted immediately. He was given a commission and took part in operations in the Dardanelles where he was wounded twice and contracted dysentery, but made a good recovery . He also served in Salonika. He had 10 days home leave in September 1916. On returning to the Front, in France, George was involved in a bombing raid and was awarded the Military Cross.

London Gazette, 11th December 1916 :- "Lieutenant George Ryder Airey, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. - For conspicuous gallantry in action. He led a successful raid against the enemy trenches with grest courage and determination, penetrated the enemy's trench, and bombed several dug-outs."

Two weeks later he received gunshot wounds to his abdomen and right shoulder resulting in his death on 24th November.