AFTER almost 60 years involvement with the Australian Defence Force, Kevin Carroll has been honoured with an OAM (Member of the Order of Australia).

The Maroochydore man said although he'd known he would receive the recognition for a few months, having to keep the secret had made it all the more exciting.

"Of course, I'm quite flattered and excited," Mr Carroll said.

"You want people to see it as soon as possible, even though you know it's going to happen in time anyway."

The former RAAF officer and retired squadron leader, who has served both in uniform and in industry, believed the catalyst for his honour was his work with the Australian Industry and Defence Network.

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"The award, while honouring me personally, also recognises the Australian Industry and Defence Network, the organisation I have passionately supported over the past 21 years," he said

The network provides support and assistance for small and medium enterprise members dealing with the Defence department, which maximises Australia's defence capabilities.

The veteran's impressive military career spanned decades, including deployments to the Australian Embassy in Washington DC and Malaysia and 25 years as an avionics technician/engineer officer in the RAAF.

Currently, Mr Carroll is the vice-president of AMS Group consultancy firm and says he has no plans of stopping any time soon.

"I will continue to fill this role as long as I can be effective," he said.