William John Symons VC (10 July 1889 – 24 June 1948) was an Australian 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 26 years old, and a second lieutenant in the 7th Battalion, (Victoria), Australian Imperial Force during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC. He later achieved the rank of lieutenant colonel during World War II. His Victoria Cross is displayed at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, Australia.