UAE honors Admiral Michael Mullen for distinguished service

WASHINGTON, DC (4 August 2010) - On behalf of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, UAE Ambassador to the United States Yousef Al Otaiba today awarded the "Emirates Military Owner Level One Medal" to Admiral Michael Glenn Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the United States Armed Forces. Admiral Mullen received the medal, the highest UAE military honor, for his distinguished service and strong cooperation with the Armed Forces of the UAE in recent years.
 
Admiral Mullen has been critical in establishing a clear role and defined mission for UAE forces as part of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. This has allowed the UAE to make important contributions to increasing stability during the recent Afghan elections in August 2009, as well as promoting the improvement of the quality of life and security of the people of Afghanistan.

Ambassador Al Otaiba honors Admiral Mullen for his distinguished service.
 
"The collaborative rapport the UAE military has with Admiral Mullen is a reflection of the broader UAE-US security relationship," Ambassador Al Otaiba said." Admiral Mullen has been instrumental in facilitating bilateral cooperation and UAE involvement on key matters such as defense equipment sales, joint training exercises and coalition operations in Afghanistan, which directly contribute to our shared goal of regional security."
 
Admiral Mullen said: "I am as honored to accept this award as I am grateful for the strong partnership that exists between the United Arab Emirates and the United States. On behalf of the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces, I will wear it proudly—mindful both of the challenges before our two militaries and the friendship that will see us through them."
 
The United Arab Emirates has partnered with the United States in significant joint military training exercises, such as Red Flag and Iron Falcon. 

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