Australian honour for US General Allen

A retired US general who led coalition forces in Afghanistan has been recognised with an Australian honour.

John Allen has been made an honorary officer in the military division of the Order of Australia.

The honour recognises General Allen's distinguished service as commander of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan from July 2011 to February 2013.

"Under his leadership, the security situation in Afghanistan improved measurably, creating the space for transition of lead security responsibility to Afghan National Security Forces," Governor-General Peter Cosgrove said in endorsing the honour.

As well, he helped secure Australia's interests in Afghanistan and won the universal confidence of servicemen and women."

US President Barack Obama has praised General Allen for presiding over significant growth in Afghanistan's security forces and a "further degradation" of the al-Qaeda terrorist network.

It is not known when the honour will be conferred on the retired US Marine Corps general.

It is Sir Peter's first announcement of an honorary appointment in the Order of Australia.

But the appointment of General Allen was formally approved by Quentin Bryce before she retired as governor-general.