A Coverack man who has dedicated four decades of his life to the Royal Navy has been appointed an MBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours List.

Chief Petty Officer Airman (aircraft handler) John Campbell, who is based at RNAS Culdrose, was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his work in both in both the |regular and reserve forces.

Currently chief of the Royal Naval Reserve Air Branch, a role to which he was appointed in 2011, during his long and distinguished career John is said to have “consistently demonstrated unwavering dedication across a whole spectrum of maritime aviation activities,” from service |at sea to a range of appointments |at the Fleet Air Arm’s air |stations – in particular at the School of Flight Deck Operations |at Culdrose.

His citation read: “His commitment and loyalty have been truly outstanding. A tireless champion of the use of |reservists in the Fleet Air Arm |he is hugely respected throughout the aviation community.

“His selection as the Chief of the Royal Naval Reserve Air |Branch in 2011 was recognition |of the immense enthusiasm, determination and innate sense |of duty that have been a hallmark |of his career. The role he has played in the Aircraft Handling Branch, naval aviation, and |

the Royal Navy over a |long period has been significant.”

John said: “I feel very honoured and absolutely delighted to be receiving the MBE.

“Throughout my career I have served alongside some of the best people |in the Royal Navy, |Fleet Air Arm and |the aircraft handlers branch.

“It’s a proud moment and I’m looking forward to picking up my medal from the Queen.”

He lives in Coverack with his wife Jane and the couple has two sons, a daughter and twin grandsons.

In his spare time John runs a successful gardening business, as well as taking a keen |and active interest in various local village activities and committees.