(Bandar Seri Begawan, 6th) The US Embassy has awarded the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal to Brunei Royal Armed Forces Air Force Deputy Commander, Brigadier General Dato Mohd Sharif, to recognize his outstanding contributions in deepening Brunei-US defense relations from August 2020 to January 2025.
Under the leadership of Brigadier General Dato Mohd Sharif, the Brunei Royal Armed Forces introduced their first drone to enhance border surveillance capabilities, supported the inaugural visit of the US fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet to Brunei, and improved Brunei’s abilities in regional humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, while carrying out rescue missions through joint Brunei-US military exercises.
Before the award ceremony, Brigadier General Dato Mohd Sharif paid a courtesy call on General Kevin Schneider, Commander of the US Pacific Air Forces, who personally awarded him the Meritorious Service Medal. US Ambassador to Brunei, Caryn McClelland, as well as officials from Brunei’s Ministry of Defence and the US Pacific Air Forces, attended the ceremony.
Ambassador Caryn McClelland stated: “Brigadier General Dato Mohd Sharif’s visionary leadership has not only strengthened Brunei’s defense capabilities, but also elevated the partnership between our two militaries to new heights. The Meritorious Service Medal recognizes his outstanding contributions to regional security and the enduring US-Brunei friendship. On the occasion of America’s 250th anniversary of independence, we will continue our steadfast commitment to deepening the bilateral relationship with Brunei and promoting our shared vision for a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region.”
The Meritorious Service Medal, established in 1942, is a high-level honor awarded by the US Armed Forces to military personnel, recognizing those who have performed exceptionally and made outstanding achievements in the execution of duties. It is also the highest American military honor that can be awarded to foreign officers.