Recognizing Excellence across the Defence Team: A message from the Deputy Minister and Chief of the Defence Staff

June 12, 2020 - Defence Stories

As we navigate these challenging times together, we want to share our appreciation for the important contributions that Defence Team members are making across Canada and elsewhere, many from a remote setting. We are both greatly encouraged by the huge degree of flexibility we’ve already seen these past few months and we cannot thank you enough.

In the spirit of recognizing the continued achievements of both our military and civilian Defence Team, we are pleased to share that National Public Service Week (NPSW) and the Celebrating Excellence Awards (CEAs) will take place as scheduled, the week of June 15 to 19, 2020. Given our COVID-19 environment, this year's celebrations will be different than those of previous years, and we will use technology to stay connected. Throughout the week, the recipients of the five CEAs will be announced with a short video and a winners’ photo gallery hosted on the Maple Leaf.

The CEAs recognize members of the Defence Team who have made significant contributions throughout the year. These awards represent the highest expression of recognition within the Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). By celebrating and showcasing excellence, DND and the CAF demonstrate that they are innovative organizations where the best and brightest work takes place.

While the CEA’s recognize a select few, we know that so many of you across the DND and the CAF make valuable contributions every day. During NPSW, any one of us can make a co-worker’s day by leaving a “Virtual” Shout-Out to acknowledge their efforts and hard work. These messages will be displayed on the DND Shout-Out Bulletin Board, housed on the Maple Leaf.

Throughout National Public Service Week, you can find the latest updates and information through the DND/CAF social media accounts and The Maple Leaf. We also encourage all Defence Team members to look for every opportunity to recognize and celebrate the achievements within your teams, formally and informally.

Each and every one of you provides an important service to our Defence Team, and to Canada. Thank you for all that you do.