 Over 3,000 UK troops are based in Afghanistan |
Major Oliver Lee, who has completed six months as Brigade Operations Officer of the country's UK Task Force, praised his troops' "tremendous qualities".
His honour comes as the Ministry of Defence announced 139 awards for UK servicemen and women around the world.
A committee of MPs had earlier called for Nato countries to commit additional troops to Afghanistan.
The Commons defence committee said it was "deeply concerned" that some member countries were reluctant to contribute personnel.
Maj Lee highlighted the efforts of British forces already on the ground.
He said: "It is not for me to comment on troop numbers.
"But I can say that a tremendous amount is being done right now to achieve our goal.
"The guys are extremely well trained and have tremendous qualities as soldiers."
'Amazing job'
Commandos who have been honoured for their role in Afghanistan were singled out for praise at a press conference in Plymouth, Devon.
They included Corporal John Thompson, of 3 Commando Brigade, who was handed the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross.
He is only the 25th person to receive the medal, one below the Victoria Cross, after taking part in more than 30 firefights against the Taleban - including one occasion when he and two other Royal Marines held off more than 40 enemy fighters.
Cpl Thompson said: "For a boy from a council estate in Plymouth to get this for just doing my job is amazing."
Defence Secretary Des Browne has said UK-led Nato forces are facing "problems" in Afghanistan, but insisted that there was no question of troops being pulled out.
