The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) and Bar awarded to Flight Lieutenant John Vere, who subsequently became one of the central figures of the legendary Dambusters raid in 1943, is to be sold by specialist auctioneers Morton & Eden in London on 15 December 2015 (Lot 945).
The medal is estimated to fetch UK£30,000 to £40,000 and is being sold by Flight Lieutenant Hopgood’s family. The proceeds from the sale will be donated to the charity WaterAid and will be used specifically to contribute towards a project in Uganda which includes the building of a sand dam; aiming to provide more than 95,000 people with safe, clean water.
Flight Lieutenant John Vere joined the RAF in 1940 and quickly became a skilled pilot; taking part in numerous dangerous sorties. The citations for Hopgood’s Distinguished Flying Cross and Bar both testify to his daring and expertise in low-level flying and herald the ultimate bravery that he would display when he flew with 617 Squadron in the famous attack on the Möhne Dam in Germany on the night of the 16-17 May 1943.
David Kirk of auctioneers Morton & Eden said: "This is undoubtedly one of the most iconic Distinguished Flying Cross to come to auction in recent years. Flight-Lieutenant Hopgood’s family has agonised over the decision to part with the medal but feel that John Hopgood himself would approve. He was evidently a very thoughtful and idealistic young man who, we believe, would be glad to know that the proceeds from the sale of his medal will go towards the building of a much-needed sand dam to benefit thousands of people in Uganda. The new dam will form a fitting memorial to Hopgood’s heroism and self-sacrifice on the Dambusters’ mission, of which his family can be duly proud".
“WaterAid is delighted that the family of Flt. Lt. John Hopgood will pay tribute to him through supporting our lifesaving work," Thomas Benn from the charity added. "This fantastic gift will help to secure a better future for thousands of people in Uganda, where one in five lacks access to clean water."
