In the initial stages of operations against Pakistan, Squadron Leader Johnny William Greene led missions of Gnats repeatedly into the Chhamb Sector where the enemy was using missile equipped F-86 Sabre and F-104 Star fighters. On 3 and 4 September 1965, the formations led by him were in the first air combats with the enemy air force. Unmindful of the enemy's numerical superiority and radar advantage, he controlled and manoeuvered his formations with such skill that they succeeded in shooting down two enemy aircraft the first in these operations.

Subsequently, he led a number of formations giving air cover to Mystere and Canberra aircraft in attacks on ground targets. The success of these attacks was largely due to his bravery and leadership.