Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Three: Captain R. A. Preeston, Royal Air Force, formerly Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

1914-15 Star (2. Lieut., L. N. Lan. R.); British War and Victory Medals (Capt., R.A.F.) mounted for wear, nearly very fine and better (3) £150-200

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, An Old Collection of Medals Relating to The Great War.

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Reginald Anselm Preeston was born in Kensington, London. A Clerk by occupation, he attested for the 6th Battalion Gloucestershire Regiment at Bristol on 8 August 1914, aged 18 years. He served until 28 December 1914 when he was discharged to a commission in the 10th Battalion Loyal North Lancashire Regiment. With them her entered the France/Flanders theatre of war in June 1915. Preeston transferred to the Royal Flying Corps in September 1916 and served as a Flying Officer Observer. Advanced to Temporary Captain Flight Commander in March 1917. Latterly served with No. 80 Squadron.

In Communique No. 131 of 17 March 1918 it was reported: ‘Lt. R. A. Preeston, 80 Squadron, whilst flying in formation, dived on one EA (Enemy Aircraft) of a large number which were attacking his formation, and he was immediately attacked by three more EA which he managed to shake off. Finding himself alone, he turned west and climbed to 12,000 feet where he was attacked by 12 EA. He fired a short burst into one EA which overshot him in a dive, then, being outnumbered, he spun and dived about 2,000 feet. He succeeded in reaching our side of the lines after a running fight the whole of the way. (With reference to this combat, the 66th Division report that at 11.10am one British scout put up a wonderful fight with eight EA, and No. 35 Squadron report one EA still falling out of control 300 feet from the ground at the same place and time. The EA was one of a large EA formation which were fighting a lone Camel.).’

For his services with the R.F.C./R.A.F. he was awarded French Croix de Guerre with Palm (London Gazette 17 July 1919). Transferred to the Unemployed List 6 April 1919.

With copied service papers, m.i.c., gazette extracts and combat reports.