A medal has been awarded posthumously to an Axmouth veteran of the Christmas Island nuclear weapons tests in the 1950s.

The award to the late Anthony Leonard Johnson, a Royal Navy Radio Operator, was presented to his widow Mrs Maria Johnson at the annual Royal British Legion Devon County Conference on Saturday, January 27 at Axminster Guild Hall.

Midweek Herald: Anthony Leonard Johnson, P/J 938368 Leading Hand Radio Operator, Royal NavyHe had been involved in Operation Grapple, part of the UK’s nuclear weapons testing programme which took part in several locations in the Pacific Ocean during the 1950s. As part of the operation Tony Johnson was seconded to the RAF and stationed on Christmas Island during the testing of two UK nuclear bombs in 1957/58. He often talked to fellow RBL members about the effects of the detonations, how close they were and, in the aftermath, how difficult it was to remain standing as the shock-wave hit.

After many years of campaigning by veterans, the Nuclear Test Medal was announced by the Prime Minister in November 2022 to recognise the significant contribution of military, civilian and overseas staff and personnel who participated in nuclear testing programmes in the 1950s and 1960s. The award is the first military medal issued by King Charles.

Midweek Herald: The late Tony Johnson of Axmouth

Sadly, Tony Johnson passed away in June 2022 with no knowledge of his medal.

The presentation of his award to Mrs Johnson was the highlight of the RBL conference last month. The event was opened by the Mayor, Cllr Jill Farrow, who spoke briefly on the importance of the RBL in the community and the essential work they undertake.

The RBL Devon County Chairman Yasmin Gibbins presided over the meeting, during which the President, Rear Admiral Chris Snow CBE DL, provided an update on the overall importance of the Royal British Legion and the work it does in supporting veterans and their families. He said that with so much instability in the world, and the involvement of British security forces, the work of the RBL was more important than ever.

The meeting then heard reports, updates and motions that would be taken to the National Conference at Newport in May, and received an update from the executive director of marketing, fundraising and remembrance for the whole Royal British Legion.

During the afternoon session the County recognised the work of individuals and branches by awarding several cups, shields and certificates of appreciation, and heard from the guest speaker, Mr Jeremy Hibbard, CEO of Veterans Outdoors.