Dougal Barker
Major Dougal Barker, of Palmerston North, received the Distinguished Service Decoration for services to the New Zealand Defence Force. Major Barker was deployed to Afghanistan from April to October 2008 and served as a patrol commander with the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team in the Bamian Province. His patrol operated in the Khamard and Sayghan districts, two of the more unstable areas of the province. As the security situation steadily declined over the summer months, he ensured his patrol had all the protection they needed and implemented a robust local engagement programme with the local population. He was pro-active in ensuring that development projects remained unaffected by terrorist activity. In early October, while on patrol, his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device. He made sure his crew escaped safely, that the tactical integrity of the remaining patrol continued and that close air support from other coalition forces was provided. Major Barker’s leadership and professionalism were integral in ensuring all members of his patrol returned safely to their base.