A 94-year-old Bath resident who helped protect the Suez Canal in the 1950s has received a medal and a formal apology for the delay from the Ministry of Defence.
Alf Prideaux with his son Steven | Photo courtesy of B&NES Council
Alfred Prideaux, who lives at the extra care housing site Avondown House on Langdon Road, was called to serve two years in the Royal Berkshire Regiment, followed by three years in the Royal Artillery reserve force.
In 1951, he was posted to Egypt as part of the garrison protecting the Suez Canal.
The posting was not easy for Alf, who lost comrades to enemy action, yet his leadership was recognised and within a year he was promoted to Corporal, a distinction that usually takes five years.
Alf’s son, Steven, who works for the Ministry of Defence (MoD), investigated why his father had never received his medals and discovered that he had accidentally been overlooked.
On 20th January, Alf was awarded his medals and given a formal apology by Steven on behalf of the Secretary of State at his home at Avondown House, witnessed by Alf’s family, friends, neighbours and carers.
Alf shared how when he went to Egypt it took ten days to arrive, and that he did not expect to spend so long there.
He said: “I got sent to Egypt, one of my brothers went to India and my younger brother went to the Isle of Wight!”
He said he was incredibly proud to receive his recognition and added: “I thoroughly enjoyed receiving my medals, it was about time! Better late than never!”
Claire Nolan, Extra Care Manager at Avondown House, which is run by Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “It was truly extraordinary to be able to witness and participate in such a tremendous event.
“Alf’s service to his country is admirable, and I am so happy that he finally received the official recognition that was his due.
“I thank his son and daughter in law for the opportunity for all of us here at Avondown House to be a part of such a special celebration.”
Councillor Alison Born, cabinet member for adult services, said: “This is a fitting and long overdue tribute to Alf’s bravery and sacrifice for our nation.
“More than seven decades may have passed, but heroes like Alf remain as inspiring as ever.”
