Soldier Simon Hall says he was “only doing his job” after being made an MBE for tackling roadside bombs in Afghanistan.

The Royal Logistic Corps Warrant Officer (Second Class) was one of more than 100 soldiers decorated for “gallantry and meritorious service” between October last year and March. During his most recent tour, WO2 Hall was one of the UK’s top weapons intelligence specialists. He collected evidence and parts from explosive devices in “highly demanding and dangerous” conditions, according to the Army.

Based in the capital Kabul, he dealt with bombs that had killed Afghan women and children and some of his own comrades.

An ammunition technician and qualified high-threat IED (improvised explosive device) operator with 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment RLC, his reports were “widely valued by a number of multinational security agencies and have become the benchmark for future expert opinion,” Army chiefs said.

Last night, the 37-year-old, who is based at Vauxhall Barracks, Didcot, said he was “overwhelmed” by the honour.

WO2 Hall, a father-of-one, said: “I don’t really know what to say, if I’m being honest.

“I am just completely overwhelmed with the MBE because I was only doing my job. When you are on the front line you are part of a close unit — it is not about individuals.”

His citation states: “WO2 Hall has made a most significant impact in the field of weapons intelligence, which has undoubtedly saved lives and preserved national integrity.

“His performance has far exceeded the bounds of reasonable commitment and has been nothing short of outstanding.”

WO2 Hall said one of the hardest parts about being away was missing his daughter.

He said: “It is very difficult leaving her back home. She has just started school and has to try to block out me being away.

“I try to speak to her every day when I am on tour. The most important thing is to stay in touch with those back home.”

Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth said: “The stories of gallantry and heroism behind many of these honours and awards are nothing short of astounding.

“The UK really does have the bravest, most professional military in the world.”

dhearn@oxfordmail.co.uk