RAF veteran awarded British Empire Medal
An RAF veteran recognised by Her Majesty the Queen in the New Year Honours has received his award at a civic ceremony.
John Deane, from Kingswinford, a member of the Dudley branch of the RAF Association, was presented with the British Empire Medal by West Midlands Lord Lieutenant Mr Paul Sabapathy CBE.
The ceremony was held at the Mayor's Parlour at Dudley Council House.
Mr Deane, aged 78, plays a key role in events in the borough's civic calendar, including the council's Remembrance Day and Armistice Day services.
He was also a runner-up for last year's Mayor's Award at the annual Mayor's Civic Awards.
Mr Deane said he was delighted to have received.
"I am thrilled and have my sister to thank for nominating me," he said.
"I get a real pleasure from the work I do for the RAF Association and in the community generally."
Mr Deane has been working with the Dudley Royal Air Force Association for more than 50 years.
He has worked tirelessly to promote the association, raise funds and remind the community of the hugely important role played by the armed forces.
Mr Deane served in Iraq and Cyprus during his national service from 1955-57 and joined the Royal Air Force Association in 1964.
He now works with Air Training Corps across the borough inspiring young people.
He was joined for the ceremony by a number of distinguished guests including retired Air Vice Marshal Mike Smart and Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty RARF.
Mayor of Dudley Councillor Margaret Aston said she was delighted for Mr Deane and was pleased he had been recognised for all his hard work.
"He really is an inspiration to us all."
