An army major nicknamed Dangermouse has been recognised with a Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service in the armed force's 49th Operational Honours and Awards.

Major Fiona Dangerfield, 44, who was born in Slough, serves with the Royal Logistic Corps. She has been honoured for her work helping to establish the UK's new high-profile operation in Estonia, earning her affectionate nickname on the way.

She was the sole logistician, overseeing the development of new barracks, ensuring Estonian plans were future-proof for UK requirements and coordinating the in-load of a multinational armoured battle group to Estonia by sea and rail.

Not content to rest on her laurels, she grappled with the complexities of host nation contracts for material and real-life support and the securing of EU tax exemption for goods and services - becoming the single point of contact for all areas for nearly four months.

Major Dangerfield enlisted in the British Army in 2003.

Her grandfather was a Sapper in the Royal Engineers and served in World War II in the 8th Army North Africa so she already had a military connection before deciding to join.

She has experienced two deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Her citation states: “Major Dangerfield put her heart and soul into this new operation and, in doing so, single-handedly built the logistics network and relationships that will continue to serve us well beyond her departure. A rare contribution deserving of national recognition.”

But Major Dangerfield said: "To me I was simply doing my job to the best of my ability, getting the job done is what it is all about. To be given a commendation for that is very humbling. I am totally chuffed and my mum cried."

She added: "I had an amazing six months in Estonia. The opportunity to be the first setting up a new operation and to be the man on the ground establishing the logistics network is not an opportunity that comes around often. The chance to work with awesome people and establish lasting relationships with our new NATO partner was an experience I will always remember and, so far, it is the highlight of my career."