September 7, 2017 4.15 pm This story is over 78 months old

Standing ovation for Dambuster George ‘Johnny’ Johnson at Lincoln graduation

Bomber Command veteran George “Johnny” Johnson MBE DFM, was today honoured at Lincoln Cathedral during a University of Lincoln graduation ceremony. George is the last remaining British survivor of Operation Chastise, the famous World War II “Dambusters” raid which flew from RAF Scampton in May 1943. Johnny was awarded the prestigious award of Honorary Doctor…
George 'Johnny' Johnson at Lincoln Cathedral earlier today. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Bomber Command veteran George “Johnny” Johnson MBE DFM, was today honoured at Lincoln Cathedral during a University of Lincoln graduation ceremony.

George is the last remaining British survivor of Operation Chastise, the famous World War II “Dambusters” raid which flew from RAF Scampton in May 1943.

Johnny was awarded the prestigious award of Honorary Doctor of the University, in recognition and appreciation of his contribution to British society.

His career in the RAF began when he joined up at 19 years of age, and he went on to become a bomb aimer. In World War II, he flew 50 missions from 1942-1944.

Johnny retired from the RAF in 1962, having progressed to the rank of Squadron Leader, and trained to become a teacher.

George ‘Johnny’ Johnson. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Having retired from teaching in 1980, Johnny has since worked enthusiastically on behalf of a number of RAF and local charities.

Professor Mary Stuart, Vice Chancellor at the University of Lincoln, said: “It is an enormous honour to be joined by Johnny Johnson MBE at our graduation celebrations.

“I can’t think of anyone more inspiring for our students to graduate alongside.”

In an interview with The Lincolnite, George said: “For me, this brings a tremendous satisfaction to be recognised by the county from which I was born, particularly for the work that I did after had left the service.

“That to me is more important than anything else, in that, it was something which I did and enjoyed doing and it got results.”

Danny and Nicky Cowley honoured at Lincoln graduation ceremony

In pictures: More graduates collect their degrees at Lincoln Cathedral