In a presentation ceremony at HMAS Waterhen, Waverton, NSW, a Royal Australian Navy Clearance Diver Officer has been awarded the United States Bronze Star Medal.
Lieutenant Commander David Shirvington was recognised for his exceptionally meritorious service as Chief of Exploitation and the Commander Advisory Response Team from June to December 2013, during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in Kabul, Afghanistan.
Commander of the Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Stuart Mayer CSC and Bar, RAN, presented the award.
“The Bronze Star Medal is the fourth highest award in the US Military, and is not given lightly. In gaining this recognition Lieutenant Commander Shirvington brings great credit to Navy, himself and the way he served.” Rear Admiral Mayer said.
Lieutenant Commander Shirvington receives the Bronze Star Medal for knowingly and with little regard for his own safety, placed himself in harm’s way for an extended period of time, in order to protect other Coalition Forces, Afghanistan Security Forces and Civilians from imminent danger and undue risk.
The certificate accompanying the medal notes Lieutenant Commander Shirvington’s exceptional leadership, performance, expertise and dedication to duty, and that his exemplary service are keeping with the highest honours and traditions of military service and reflect distinct credit upon himself, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command and the Royal Australian Navy.
The Bronze Star Medal is awarded to individuals of non United States military for acts of heroism, acts of merit, or meritorious service, while serving with or alongside a service branch of the United States Armed Forces.
[mappress] Press Release, July 07, 2014; Image: Australian Navy