George Findlay

Colonel George de Cardonnel Elmsall Findlay VC MC & Bar (20 August 1889 – 26 June 1967) was a Scottish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.

He was 29 years old, and an acting major in the 409 (Lowland) Field Company, Corps of Royal Engineers, British Army during the First World War when the following deed took place during the second battle of Sambre for which he was awarded the VC.

On 4 November 1918 during the forcing of the Sambre-Oise Canal at the lock south of Catillon, France, Major Findlay was with the leading bridging and assaulting parties which came under heavy fire and the advance was stopped.

Although wounded he continued with his task and after two unsuccessful efforts managed to place the bridge in position across the lock and was the first man across, remaining at this dangerous post until further work was completed.

Findlay is buried at Kilmaronock Church, near Gartocharn, West Dunbartonshire, Scotland in his family plot.