NELSON, Barry John

M90424, Wing Commander, Royal New Zealand Air Force

CITATION

New Zealand Distinguished Service Decoration

Queen's Birthday Honours List 2007

A Karori Air Force Officer will be named as one of the first recipients of the new Distinguished Service Decoration on June 4 for his work on the Air Forces Helicopter Capability Project. Wing Commander NELSON has led the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) element of the Helicopter Capability Project over the last three years.  His citation notes that, ‘As a pilot from outside the helicopter role, he has had the added challenge of acquiring the professional knowledge and confidence of those in the role to effectively progress the project.  He also worked tirelessly to develop effective and professional relationships with NATO Helicopter Industries, the prime contractor for the NH90 advanced medium utility helicopter.  These relationships have translated into smooth dealings with the contractors on one of Defence’s most expensive acquisition projects.  His endeavours will result in the NZDF receiving very capable aircraft and set the stage for helicopter operations, providing critical support to Land Forces, Special Forces, government agencies and security partners, both in New Zealand and overseas, for at least the next three decades.’

KNOWN AWARDS

New Zealand Distinguished Service Decoration

New Zealand Armed Forces Award

NOTES

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THE PRO PATRIA PROJECT