Meritorious Service Medal
- Awarded on: January 5, 2011
- Invested on: May 03, 2013
Rank: Colonel
Colonel Bilton, of the Australian Army, was deployed to Afghanistan as Deputy Chief of Staff for Security Sector Reform in Regional Command (South) from April to November 2008. His tact and statesmanship helped overcome inter-organizational mistrust and promote harmony in the relationship between the Afghan National Army and Police. His engagement and mentorship of Afghan leaders established exceptional synergy between coalition, Afghan and ISAF forces. Colonel Bilton’s outstanding leadership and commitment greatly enhanced the capability of Afghan National Security Forces in Southern Afghanistan.
