Meritorious Service Cross
- Awarded on: August 8, 1988
- Invested on: September 21, 1988
Rank: Lieutenant-Colonel
In late 1987, Lieutenant-Colonel Knutsen was entrusted with a highly sensitive and technically specialized project of great military importance to Canada. He quickly became both the catalyst and driving force behind the project. He applied himself with ceaseless devotion to flying special missions and analysing data. He directed the planning and execution of several trials, brought together operational, engineering, intelligence and scientific representatives, and effectively focussed their work. His diligence and drive culminated in the success of this very special and important project in maritime operations for the defence of Canada.