Lot 2307

Description

Group of Three: Distinguished Flying Cross (GVIR); 1939-45 Star; France Germany Star. 1945 engraved on DFC, the other two medals unnamed. Very fine.

Arthur Edmundson Preston. F.O. Aus 421124 R.A.A.F. 192 Squadron. Enl.07Dec1941 Sydney, Dis.07Dec1945 DFC. L.G.: 17Apr1945. 'This Officer has completed numerous operations against the enemy, in the course of which he has invariably displayed the utmost fortitude, courage and devotion to duty'. F.O. Preston flew a Halifax bomber while attached to the R.A.F. 'On the 10Jul1949 Preston, his brother Albert and their friend, Merrick Alexander Thompson were bringing a 26-foot yacht from Palm Beach to Rose Bay when the rudder jammed. The boom then swung across the vessel, striking Thompson and Arthur Preston. Thompson was knocked to the floor of the yacht but Arthur Preston fell into the sea. As the yacht was uncontrollable, Thompson and Albert Preston could only watch helplessly as the distance widened between the yacht and Arthur Preston, who swam towards the rocks about 200 yards away. Despite a thorough search of the rocks between Blue Fish Point and the North Head there was no trace of Arthur Preston. His body was never recovered.' Together with warrant, RAAF Officers Certificate of Service, Discharge Certificate, I.D. disc, RAAF cloth wings, Returned from Active Service badge, pay books, Log book (training), compass (war issue), photographs, maps, sweetheart brooches in gold (2), silver, letters, group of Commonwealth badge, Germany Mothers Cross, newspaper clippings, small book 'Yet Another Day' used a a diary with entries of some actions, United Lodge of N.S.W. case with apron and certificates.