A prestigious award has been presented to a United State Air Force communications officer on work exchange in Malvern.

Major John Ladino is one of 20 armed forces personnel supporting research work at QinetiQ and DSTL.

Major Ladino was presented with the Meritorious Service Medal by Group Captain Mike Oldham, the senior RAF officer at DSTL.

The ceremony took place at the Malvern Officers' Club annual cocktail party on Thursday, July 13.

Major Ladino said it was a tremendous honour to have the presentation take place in front of his British colleagues.

"It's a unique opportunity and I'm very honoured," he said. "It embraces what the exchange position is all about. The relationship between the US and the UK, and how we support one another."

The equivalent of receiving a Certificate of Commendation from the Royal Air Force, the Meritorious Service Medal is rarely given.

Major Ladino received his for outstanding service during his previous posting at Keesler Airforce Base in Mississippi, where he played a major part in the establishment of a new mobile radio tower.

He also reviewed the base's engineering and installation work plan, resulting in a major update and improvement in its data and communication facilities.

Major Ladino now works as a military adviser on research projects, alongside British navy, army and airforce officers based in Malvern.

Malvern Officers' Club gives serving and retired officers the chance to meet once a month. Club member Lt Col James Sweetman said the party at his home, where Major Ladino received his medal, was a great success.