A Warrant Officer has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the Royal Navy with a prestigious Meritorious Service Medal (MSM).

WO1 (Warfare Specialist) Robert Maile, 44, from Fulham, has served in the Senior Service for 28 years, and is currently working as the Operational Information Management Warrant Officer where he provides direction and guidance on information warfare to the fleet.

Just 52 MSMs are presented each year by the Second Sea Lord Vice Admiral Jonathan Woodcock on board Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory.

The Fulham FC supporter said: “I was humbled but overjoyed to be nominated for this award. I was completely blown away when my Commanding Officer told me I had been awarded the MSM.

“The idea that so many people took the time and effort to acknowledge my service in the Royal Navy was truly humbling. The fact that so few of these awards are given out each year makes me very proud to be in the Royal Navy.”

As well as the MSM he also holds the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and Silver Jubilee medals - for Long Service and Good Conduct - and the NATO medal with clasp for service in Kosovo.

The MSM is the highest distinction for senior ratings outside the realm of bravery, and only naval personnel who have completed 20 years’ service, and already received the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal as well as having a service record classed as exemplary are eligible.