Ombudsman recognizes members of Canada’s Defence community with the 24th Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation
Ombudsman Message | 28 October 2025
I was honoured to celebrate the achievements of members of Canada’s Defence community at the 24th annual Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation ceremony.
This annual commendation recognizes members of the Defence community who go above and beyond to help their colleagues resolve difficult challenges. It also honours those who drive positive and lasting change within the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces.
We were joined by many distinguished guests who came to acknowledge the remarkable dedication of this year’s recipients, including Dr. Andrea Hoffman, daughter of Liz Hoffman. I was also pleased to welcome Parliamentary Secretary Sherry Romanado (on behalf of the Minister of National Defence), General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, and many representatives from the CAF, DND and members of parliament were also in attendance.
It was a privilege to recognize this year’s recipients of the Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation:
Lieutenant-Colonel Patricia Travers
Lieutenant-Colonel Patricia Travers has gone beyond the expectations of her formal duties, making an exceptional and lasting impact across the entire Defence community. Her leadership is defined by empathy, innovation, and strategic foresight.
Lieutenant-Colonel Travers has consistently championed the well-being, and fair treatment of Canadian Armed Forces members and their families. As the RCAF Logistics HR Specialty Advisor and HRA Occupation Advisor, she has mentored and advocated for over 2,000 members.
She has often stepped into roles declined by others and ensured that systemic challenges and individual needs were addressed with compassion and clarity. Her efforts have empowered members through transparent communication, peer learning, and direct access to leadership, while also supporting those facing mental health crises, career uncertainty, or personal hardship.
Her influence extends beyond her immediate responsibilities and has helped to shape policy, culture, and leadership practices across the CAF. She is a catalyst for positive change, a model of character-based leadership, and a tireless advocate for a more inclusive, resilient, and effective Defence Team.
Master Sailor Ingeborg (Haley) LeClair
Master Sailor (MS) Ingeborg (Haley) LeClair is an exemplary leader whose unwavering dedication, compassion, and advocacy have made a profound impact on the Royal Canadian Navy and the broader Canadian Armed Forces.
As the Formation MS for the Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) and Joint Task Force Pacific since November 2023, MS LeClair has become a trusted voice for junior Non-Commissioned Members, consistently bridging the gap between leadership and the ranks she represents.
Balancing multiple demanding roles, MS LeClair demonstrated her tireless commitment to the well-being of others. She is known for her approachable manner, empathetic leadership, and ability to resolve conflict with fairness and discretion. Her proactive engagement across units, including sailing on multiple vessels to gain firsthand insight, ensures that her advocacy is grounded in lived experience.
MS LeClair’s influence extends nationally. She played a key role on Naval boards in Ottawa and as a member of the Chief Professional Conduct and Culture Working Group, where she helped shape policy and foster a culture of respect and integrity. Her efforts have led to tangible improvements in quality of life for members, particularly those on leadership courses, and are widely recognized for their innovative, solution-focused approach.
Her dual perspective as both a serving member and a spouse of a serving member enhances her ability to advocate for both personnel and their families. Members consistently credit MS LeClair with helping them navigate personal and professional challenges, improve morale, and even remain in the CAF.
Warriors of the Royal Winnipeg Rifle Indigenous Group
The Warriors of The Royal Winnipeg Rifles, an Indigenous drum group which was formed in 2021, has demonstrated exceptional leadership, cultural advocacy, and commitment to reconciliation within the CAF and beyond.
Inspired by the tragic loss of Corporal Nolan Caribou, The Warriors of the Royal Winnipeg Rifles Indigenous Group created a safe and culturally grounded space for Indigenous soldiers to heal, connect, and grow. Rooted in the Seven Grandfather Teachings, their weekly gatherings foster resilience, community, and spiritual well-being.
Their impact extends beyond their unit. The Warriors have performed at national ceremonies—including the coronation of King Charles III and National Indigenous Veterans Day and led the CAF’s National Truth and Reconciliation Day ceremony in Winnipeg.
They have also taken on a vital educational role, teaching Indigenous culture and protocol to soldiers, veterans, schools, and community members, enriching lives and promoting understanding.
Through their tireless efforts, The Warriors have created a legacy of unity, healing, and cultural pride. Their unwavering dedication to service, fairness, and reconciliation exemplifies the spirit of the Liz Hoffman Memorial Commendation.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to these outstanding individuals. Like Liz Hoffman, they are a powerful force for positive change—helping others and making a meaningful difference.
Mario Baril
Ombudsman