Electronic Arts today announced that David Gardner, Executive Vice President of International Studios, has been made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. He received the honor on the occasion of the Queen's birthday. The OBE recognizes Gardner's strong support of the UK as an attractive country for creative talent and games development. American born, he became a naturalized British Citizen while living and working in the UK and a fierce advocate for creative industries in that country. He is responsible for creating EA's presence in the UK in 1987 and helping to grow European revenue to $1 billion today, employing close to 1,000 people in locations in Chertsey and Guildford.

British Honours are normally awarded twice a year. A list is published on The Queen's official birthday in June and at the New Year. The OBE was instituted by George V and recognizes service and achievement in all fields.