GALLANT MAJOR

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21248, 19 October 1940, Page 7

GALLANT MAJOR

AWARDED THE FLYING CROSS LONG TREK IN DESERT LACK OF WATER AND FOOD (omclal Wireless) (Received, Oct. 19, 11 a.m.) RUGBY, Oct. 18 Three officers and two sergeants of the Middle East Command have received decorations in recognition of gallantry displayed in flying operations against the enemy. One of the officers is Major Robert Prelle, a member of the Royal South African Air Force, and describing the 'conduct which gained him the Distinguished Flying Cross the citation states: “While carrying out reconnaissance and attacking enemy aircraft on the ground Major Prelle was shot down in the desert in enemy territory 70 miles from the border. He destroyed his aircraft and proceeded to walk to British territory, accompanied by the crew of two, who eventually became exhausted. He left them at a water-hole and proceeded alone to seek aid. “After 14 days, having suffered terrible hardships through lack of water and food, he made contact with the British forces, and was able to give directions which led to the rescue of the crew and the recovery of a very valuable exposed film of enemy military objectives. “This officer has shown marked determination in individual operations and in leading the squadron he imbued the men with his own fighting spirit to a remarkable degree.”