Hero’s War Time Tribute Ceremony
WAR TIME HERO - SIMON THE CAT TRIBUTE CEREMONY
1949 Chinese Civil War Hero Simon the cat (also awarded the Dickin Medal for bravery in 1943) was tributed again this week for his acts of bravery.
During his time on the HMS Amethyst he protected food stores from rat infestation for the Royal Navy.
HMS Amythest’s ex Captin Stuart Hett lead a wreath-laying congregation at the Essex cemetery on monday where Simon was buried in 1949.
During Simon’s time onboard the vessel he suffered severe shrapnel wounds during a 101-day siege under constant fire, an incident now known as Yangtze where 17 marines were among the dead.
After received a hero’s welcome when the ship returned to Plymouth 1st Nov 1949 Simon died in quarantine 3 weeks later but is remembered in history as one of the most deserving of our feline heros.
Hundreds of pieces of fan letters arrived at the Royal Navy offices when the news spread of Simon’s tribute service.
“Simon’s company and expertise as a rat catcher were invaluable during the months we were held captive.” said one of Simon’s ex shipmates. “During a terrifying time, he helped boost the morale of many young sailors, some of whom had seen their friends killed.”
Simon was the only cat amongst 62 animals awarded our Victoria Cross equivalent; the Dickin Medal animal award for bravery. Other animals awarded with the same medal included horses, dogs and messenger pigeons.