Prebble, Edgar Cyril
Prebble-Edgar-Cyril.jpg

Dates:

War Service:
He joined the 12th Battalion of the Middlesex Regiment and served in France from 25 July 1915. He saw action in several of the major battles of the war including the Battle of Thiepval Ridge (part of the Battle of the Somme), where he was wounded by gunshot. He returned to the Middlesex Regiment however and on 31 October 1917 was commissioned 2nd Lieutenant.

After the 12th Battalion Middlesex Regiment was disbanded on 13 February 1918 Cyril was transferred to the 2/2 London Regiment, joining on 7 April, to replace severe losses suffered by the Battalion. This coincided with the German Spring Offensive and the Battalion was soon in action again in engagements around Hangard Wood. Later on 8 August 1918 Cyril won the Military Cross. This was for actions during the first day of the Battle of Amiens when the Allies began to push the Germans back and was seen as the start of the end of the conflict.

The citation reads:-
'For conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty. Although the troops on his left flank had been surrounded he hung on to his position and organised and led a small counter attack, gaining time which allowed the position to be restored. He killed at least a dozen of the enemy, and by his example inspired his men to make a most determined resistance in the face of overwhelming numbers. He did splendid service'. Unfortunately Cyril was also killed later the same day possibly by artillery fire when the Battalion was re-grouping.

Location of Memorial:
Cyril Edgar Prebble is buried at Pernois British Cemetery, France. He is remembered on New Cross, Haberdashers' Aske's Boys' School WW1 War Memorial

Details:
Cyril Edgar Prebble was the son of Samuel and Emily Prebble of Cerise Road, Peckham. He was born in 1895 the youngest of four brothers (Samuel, Herbert and Percy), who all served in WW1.

Source:

Contributed By: Matthew Cordwell

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