| Citation: New Year Honour. Major Denis Austin Milford Phipps (393247), APM, HQ SHAPE, RMP. 1 Feb 1966 - July 1968.
Citation: 1. Local Lieutenant Colonel PHIPPS held the appointment of Assistant Provost Marshal, Supreme Headquarters allied Powers Europe from February 1966 to July 1968. During his period in office there have been many changes in organisation of police cover and physical security at the headquarters.
2. From AUGUST 1966 Local Lieutenant Colonel PHIPPS, then a Major, devoted much time and thought to an extensive study of the organisation and methods of employment of the SHAPE International Police Force. his efforts in this respect were far beyond the call of normal duty and were characterised by thoroughness, understanding, flexibility and inspired leadership. Although he was faced with language barriers and differences in operational capability and military training of the many forces involved from 11 nations and, in many instances, the three services of these nations: the result of his efforts was an amalgamated, highly efficient and unique International Police Force which will continue to bear his formative influence.
3. From October 1966 to January 1967 Local Lieutenant Colonel PHIPPS served as a member of the negotiating teams in Brussels to plan the movement of SHAPE from France to Belgium. In this capacity he played a major part in negotiations at ministerial level which resulted in well planned and highly successful systems for the special registration of thousands of privately owned vehicles and weapons, and the official documentation of civilian personnel of the headquarter. Lieutenant Colonel PHIPPS@ pleasant and cheerful demeanour and his excellent command of the French language were extremely valuable to SHAPE in such difficult and important meetings. In these negotiations he laid the basis for the close co-operation and harmony which exists today in relationships with several departments of the Belgian Government.
4. He was a member of the headquarters Advance Party immediately prior to the move from France to Belgium, and during this very active period was able to establish the Provost Marshal's Officer, planning and initiating the physical security and police functions at the new location, and effecting liaison with Belgian national and local law enforcement agencies. He was hampered by lack of manpower and proper facilities, but by enthusiasm ans special aptitude he inspired his staff to achieve a sound and efficient organisation which has been maintained.
5. The results described have been achieved by special efforts and a display of personal qualities well in excess of that normally to be expected of an officer of his rank. Local Lieutenant Colonel PHIPPS has earned a reputation for good humoured and powerful competence which has been the subject of much favourable comment by senior officers and officials of other NATO countries.
Recommended by: Deputy Commander (British) SHAPE. Maj/Gen. SHAPE. Deputy SACEUR, SHAPE.
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