The Ordinary Seaman

The Ordinary Seaman

George Aunger (Ordinary Seaman)

Aunger, George. Rank: Ordinary seaman, ship’s book number S385, age 23, nationality British. He was born in Exeter, received a Government grant of £4-12-6 and prize money of £1-17-06. He joined Victory from the Woolwich tender on 11th May 1803 and after leaving her on 15th January 1806 he joined HMS Ocean.

As an Ordinary Seaman Aunger was an experienced seaman. He could be called on to carry out many tasks including being part of a boat’s crew. He may have helped people like the Gunner (Mr Rivers) or Mr Bunce the carpenter. He would also be employed in general maintenance around Victory.

In battle he was part of one of the quarter deck guns’ crew. If boarders were required Aunger was a pike man and would repel boarders from the enemy ship with that weapon.

If Victory was taking in or making sail Aunger would be found working on the Fore Top Sail. When the Victory was working her anchors he would be employed on the Fore Castle either getting the anchor ready for letting go, or if bring the anchor up he would help to stow it ready for going to sea.

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