Last surviving Dambusters pilot dies in New Zealand aged 96

The last surviving pilot of the Dambusters raid has died at the age of 96.

He died this morning in hospital in Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty in New Zealand, his friend Ron Mayhill said.

The bouncing bombs had been specially designed for the raid, officially known as Operation Chastise, by engineer Sir Barnes Wallis.

Mr Mayhill, President of the New Zealand Bomber Command Association, said he was a “fine man” and will be much missed.

The 96-year-old, who was also a local councillor and a magistrates, had been unwell for around one week, but his death was still described as a shock.

Munro donated his medals, flight log books, and other memorabilia to become part of an exhibition at the Museum of Transport and Technology dedicated to the New Zealand members of Bomber Command, and their service during the Second World War.

‘This is a surprise and a real disappointment, ‘ he told the Press Association. His life was all about service.’.

Flying from RAF Scampton near Lincoln in 1943, 19 bombers headed for Germany to destroy three dams in the Ruhr valley.

While RAF pilots usually flew at least 250ft above ground, the Dambusters flew at only 60ft, at night.

Mr Munro had planned to auction his decorations to pay towards the upkeep of the Bomber Command Memorial in London’s Green Park.

The medals are now housed close to a Lancaster bomber – the same as the one Mr Munro once flew.

Speaking about the event, he said: “In a way it’s very emotional”. I’m very pleased to have had the opportunity to attend.

Munro’s bomber was hit by a flak over the Netherlands but made it home.

“Really sad to hear of Les Munro’s death, New Zealand has lost a remarkable man who led a remarkable life”, he said.

“I have extremely sad news”.

“This memorial commemorates the 125,000 aircrew from all Commonwealth nations who served in WW2, including the 55,573 who paid the ultimate sacrifice; 1,679 of them New Zealanders”.