Speaking post-match - after his side's 17-point win over Essendon at the MCG on Anzac Day on Tuesday - Johnson said the medal was an unexpected victory.
"I was expecting Didak's name to be read out, so it was a big shock anyway," Johnson said.
"It was massive. I'm rapt, shocked, but rapt."
Collingwood coach Mick Malthouse said it was a fine reward for Johnson after he had a frustrating season in 2005.
"Benny had an indifferent year last year. He started off very, very well and we didn't have him in spirit for half of the year and then finally he succumbed to his injury," Malthouse said.
"Benny has been much-maligned, as far as his helicopters go, but we've learned to be able to catch the ball side on, so that's a bonus.
"He wears (number) 26 with great pride and if I had a favourite player that played for Collingwood, when I wasn't barracking for Collingwood, it'd be (number) 26 Gavin Brown and this bloke typifies that spirit."
