Have You a Tiger In Your Family?

Rank : Lieutenant

Army Number : 11616

Unit : 8th Bn

Biography :

George Sleath volunteered for the 8th Bn The Leicestershire Regiment at the beginning of World War One, and entered France as a Sergeant on 29.7.1915. He was very badly wounded in the leg at Gueudecourt on 19.9.1916 and very nearly had to have it amputated. He was commissioned Temp 2Lt in The East Surrey Regiment on 22.7.1918. For his actions while serving in 12th Bn East Surreys at Gheluwe he was awarded the M.C. (L.G. 1.2.1919: For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty during operations near Gheluwe on 1st-2nd October, 1918. When all other officers had become casualties, he took command of the company, reorganised it under very difficult circumstances, and controlled the men splendidly against an enemy counter-attack. He inspired all ranks with confidence in spite of very heavy machinegun fire."). He was also Mentioned in Despatches. He also served in The Gloucestershire Regiment. He was an assistant schoolmaster working for the Leicestershire County Council Education Committee.
He died in 1966, aged 80 years.
The MC and other medals he was awarded in both the First and Second World Wars, are in the collection of Leicester City Museums Service.

Date of Birth : 20.7.1885

Place of Birth : Rothley, Leics

Date of Death : 12.3.1966

Place of Death : Hinckley, Leics

Civil Occupation : Schoolmaster

Period of Service : 1910s

Conflicts : WW1

Places Served : France and Flanders