Meritorious Service Cross
- Awarded on: June 9, 2005
- Invested on: September 21, 2005
Rank: General
Lieutenant-General Hillier, now General, is recognized for his outstanding contributions to NATO’s International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and to the citizens of Afghanistan during his tenure as Commander ISAF V from February to August 2004. Under challenging and demanding circumstances, he guided the ISAF during a critical transition period. This included projecting influence through provincial reconstruction teams, building the capacity of Afghan security institutions, and providing assistance and security for voter registration during the electoral process. Lieutenant-General Hillier’s leadership, fortitude and dedication were of the highest calibre and enabled him to foster relationships with Afghan authorities that will assist NATO for years to come.
