U.S. Pacific Fleet headquarters was notified one of its Sailors was awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross, June 13.

Royal Australian Navy Capt. David Peter Mann, assigned to U.S. Pacific Fleet as the Australia exchange officer, earned a place on the "Queen's Birthday 2016 Honours List."

"When I was informed of the news that Capt. Dave Mann had earned this prestigious award I was absolutely delighted; however, I was not surprised as he is a superior officer and great representative of the Royal Australian Navy," said Executive Director Plans and Policy William Wesley. "He has worked on our staff now for the past year and epitomizes the tremendous bond that we enjoy on a daily basis between our navies. Our staff has benefited daily from his superb experiences, exceptional expertise and unique perspective that he provides us on the Indo-Asia-Pacific region."

Mann was awarded the cross for his support and outstanding devotion to duty as Director, Navy Capability Needs and Analysis, Navy Strategic Command, in support of force design and development in operations from January 2013 to December 2015.

"I was incredibly shocked," said Mann. "You don't normally go to work to get a medal. It was an honor to get that level of an award for my last two years of work that I was doing in Australia. I was just gobsmacked."

Mann worked in a unique position as a military analyst reviewing high profile projects for the Royal Australian Navy in future requirements, infrastructure, and planning. He and his team developed policy for regional strategy, strategic, functional, and operational planning.

The Conspicuous Service Cross was introduced October 18, 1989, and recognizes a diverse range of contributions and service; the award list is put out twice a year during Australia Day in January and Her Majesty the Queen's birthday in June. The award recognizes those who have shown outstanding devotion to duty, or achievement in the application of exceptional skills, judgment, and dedication in non-warlike situations.

According to Mann, the award was made more special because it was awarded not only to him, but to those who have helped him achieve his goals.

"During my posting I had the fortune and pleasure of working with a small professional team looking beyond the horizon whilst remaining focused on the people that matter the most," said Mann. "I would not have been able to apply myself to the job without the support and sacrifice of my wife, Nicole, who juggled family commitments and her own navy career at the same time. I am proud to have my work recognized in the Queen Birthday Honours and I hope my efforts assure the future capability of our world-class navy."

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