An author, historian and journalist known for his stories of the people behind some of Navy’s most notable missions has been recognised in a surprise presentation at Indo Pacific 2025.

Mike Carlton was presented with a Navy Gold Commendation by Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond for an outstanding commitment and contribution to the RAN.

It is uncommon for someone outside Defence to receive a commendation, but Mr Carlton’s contribution was described as “exemplary”.

The prestigious award was given to the author after his opening address on the third day of the Indo Pacific 2025 conference.

The former broadcaster captured the attention of the audience with a riveting address as he spoke about writing his latest book, Dive! The book delves into the history of Australian submariners at war.

When presenting the award, Vice Admiral Hammond thanked the author for his “outstanding contributions to animating the history of the RAN”.

“Your determined efforts and devotion have raised greater public awareness of the Australian Navy service to our nation since 1901,” Vice Admiral Hammond said.

'Your work has rightly positioned you as the ‘unofficial’ historian of the RAN.'

“Your detailed research has uncovered untold stories about officers and sailors, bringing their histories to life and giving them a relatable human quality.

“Your work has rightly positioned you as the ‘unofficial’ historian of the RAN. Thank you so much for your service.”

Joined on stage by his family for the surprise ceremony, Mr Carlton thanked Vice Admiral Hammond and the service.

“It’s been an honour and a privilege, so thank you to all of you in what I believe is the finest blue-water navy in the world,” he said.

Mr Carlton was a war correspondent for the ABC, and over the years the prolific author turned his passion for naval history into five books focusing on HMA Ships Perth I, Sydney, Australia II, submarines and the scrap iron flotilla.

During his address to the audience, the former radio host and newspaper columnist touched on his writing process.

“It is the entire ship’s company that makes the ship, and it is the discovering and getting to know the men [on the historical submarines] that is the most stimulating, the most challenging, and the most rewarding part of researching and writing,” he said.

“We often focus too much on officers. It’s important and vital to have the stories of sailors – they have a very different perspective.”