2021 Celebrating Excellence Awards

Awarded to: Ann Chamberlin

We take this opportunity to recognize Ms. Ann Chamberlin for the impact that her service has had on both the Indigenous and Defence communities she has worked with. As Indigenous Program Manager and a key Indigenous Advisor, she has built relationships and engaged with DND staff to improve outcomes and increase education about Indigenous culture. She has represented Canada on the international stage and briefed high-level delegations about CAF management and development of their Indigenous portfolio. Ms. Chamberlin has been a champion in promoting a deeper consciousness and appreciation for Indigenous peoples, and their important contributions to Canadian society.

Awarded to: Lorraine McKoy

Citation: Commended for continuously improving workplace safety and relations, and for seeking resolution within the CAF community.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: A much deserved “Shout-Out” for Lorraine McKoy. Lorraine your hard work is admirable, and it guarantees a continuing successful relationship between us and the people who look up to you for help and resolution. Your passion for doing what’s right and not willing to accept the norm has driven the unit to improve patient care and ultimately our patients’ experience. With you problems become opportunities and those opportunities you chase have an everlasting positive effect on people. Your constant efforts at strengthening our culture is a true blessing. Congratulations and well deserved. - Roger Watson

Awarded to: PSP Reconditioning Team

Alexandru Burnaru, Sébastien Hayes, Stephanie Haynes, Allison MacLeod, Dominic Pharand

The PSP Reconditioning team showed dedication and commitment to the highest values of DND teamwork and support. To assist CAF members over the pandemic, they introduced secure platforms, created client and leadership feedback tools to monitor staff well-being, developed a variety of content to encourage physical fitness, health and wellness, and provided multiple outlets and venues to connect with each other and overcome a sense of isolation. The team responded to feedback and continuously refined educational workshops and information sessions, branching out and making improvements to group programming as required. Their invaluable leadership turned challenges into opportunities at every turn.

Awarded to: Harry W. Ehret

Citation: Commended for extraordinary focus and achievement in creating and developing the OUTCAN database, providing DND with a superior solution for monitoring and evaluating strategic security related tasks.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: This shout-out is from all of us at OUTCAN Coordination and Support, we want to thank-you Harry for all your hard work and dedication in designing, developing, and maintaining the OUTCAN Database and Visualization Tool! This tool, as the System of Record for OUTCAN members and their families, is critical for tracking their disposition for security, administrative, and financial purposes. We used it to capture and visualize information during the COVID-Wave 1 pandemic worldwide evacuation, and it was a key enabler in supporting our DND/CAF families. On behalf of the OUTCAN community, we are extremely grateful for your dedication and are very happy to see that you are receiving this much deserved award.

Awarded to: Robin Lepine

Citation: Commended for upgrading IT platforms to facilitate more effective communication and delivery of clinical care to patients in support of key CAF priorities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator:A special shout out to an outstanding individual and team member of 1 Dental Unit, Mr. Robin Lepine. Mr. Lepine is a deserving Public Servant whose steadfast dedication and creative approach have generated a significant impact on his unit capacity to accomplish its mission. Facing many challenges inherent to new technology, a unit dispersed in multiple time zones, and a diverse workforce not familiar with new programs and platforms; Mr. Lepine developed a remarkable Sharepoint site and provided outstanding training and technical support to unit personnel. The effective implementation of this capability during a time of pandemic has enabled his unit to support CAF/DND objectives across Canada.

Awarded to: Director Strong, Secured, Engaged Financial Strategies Team

Shannon Adams, Luc Beaudoin, Nick Grondin, Janyee Lau, Danielle Lawlor, Marilyn Luong, Sandra Schneider, Perfecto Vélez Macho

The Director SSE FS Team has made a significant impact on life cycle cost techniques and estimating services for capital projects. Through savvy design and automation, they ensured that the Continental Defence initiative succeeded as they revamped the existing LCC modeling tool, mainly through VBA coding and applied risk modeling. This resulted in a more robust risk analysis system, bringing greater speed, functionality, transparency and credibility for risk forecasting and cost estimates. This adaptive integration was completed under tight timeframes and within projected budget. The Team deserves praise and recognition for creating tools that enhance cost effectiveness and informed decision-making.

Awarded to: Director Research Workforce Analytics (DRWA) and Director Personnel Generation Requirements (DPGR) Team

Dr. Lise Arseneau, Meagan Boileau, Ingrid Lai, Stephen Okazawa, Robert Read, Jason Skaff, Michelle Straver, Jeffrey Wright

The DRWA responded to necessity by developing game-changing tools that allow staff and leadership to plan internal and external HR processes with greater precision, transparency and confidence. Under the guidance of DPGR, they created new models that would capture data and provide projections in a rapid manner in comparison to previous HR technologies. The hallmark of this new system would be several complex algorithms that would allow staff to successfully anticipate and plan for internal and external intake requirements. This translates into a more long-term approach with a more strategic, fluid and reliable process for everyone involved.

Awarded to: “Talking About Race” Leadership Team

CPO2 Felix Akol, Maj Ryan Carter, Cdr Têtê Délali Éloi Gunn

The “Talking About Race” Leadership Team fulfils an important role in assisting racialized Defence Team members to discuss race-related matters, and to find common ground in an open and welcoming environment. Their frequent events have been successful thanks to the facilitative approach and diverse discussion points with involvement from multiple organizations such as the Defence Visible Minority Advisory Group and the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service. The Team promotes understanding, encouragement and support on race-related issues for Defence staff, offering genuine and unique perspectives along with mentorship, a feeling of solidarity, and meaningful opportunities to hear and include everyone who participates.

Awarded to: Anti-Racism Secretariat

Seema Chowdhury, CWO Sherri Forward, Jeffery Gauger, Ixchel Medina Hernandez, Denise Moore, Marie-Josée Rinfret

We congratulate the Anti-Racism Secretariat for their work and success in improving racial diversity and inclusion across DND and CAF organizations. They developed a practical framework with accompanying policies and tools that would not only identify racism but offer appropriate support and generate reports to keep leadership better informed on the progression of antiracism across the Department. The Secretariat also assisted with departmental responses and perspective in the Minister’s Advisory Panel’s Final Report. By creating a platform to capture written submission on racial experiences, they created a more effective process to promote education and inclusion for everyone within the organization.

Awarded to: Sgt Leslie Blair

Citation: Commended for excellence in leadership and mentorship, and for making a meaningful impact throughout the Royal Canadian Air Force, through military and volunteer service.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: I wish to congratulate Sgt Leslie Blair for being the recipient of the 2021 DM/CDS Excellence in Defence Award - Leadership Excellence. She is a champion for matters involving inclusion, innovation, and ethics. She is able to identify and help resolve some of the issues which challenge a woman’s successful employment and career progression within the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces. Leslie embodies all the characteristics, qualities and values of a strong and dedicated member of this organization.

Awarded to: André Picard

Citation: Thank you for accepting and successfully completing this “mission impossible.” You took calculated risks and were an inspiring leader; your contributions were sought after by our partners, various departments and industry. The success of this initiative all comes down to you. Two mobile respiratory care units were deployed to support the provincial authorities. Bravo!

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: To highlight exceptional leadership in response to COVID-19. André Picard led the efforts to transform the idea of a mobile respiratory care unit into reality: 100-bed stand-alone units to provide targeted care to individuals suffering from acute respiratory distress. Mr. Picard guided his team in developing the concept, the requirements and the statement of work and in setting up contracts in 10 days: an unprecedented achievement in major acquisitions.

Awarded to: Faduno Ali

Mrs. Faduno Ali has been integral in improving the culture and workplace policies at DND as the leader of the Anti-Racism and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion portfolios. Working in close collaboration with the Anti-Racism Secretariat, she developed the first ADM(IE) Anti-Racism Framework, and established a committee to support this initiative, providing a forum for collaboration where anti-racism can gain momentum and flourish.

She designed programs to train staff and was integral in planning and producing the first Department-wide Black History month event. She provides regular consultations and continues to raise awareness, enhancing the working environment for all DND personnel.

Awarded to: Jeetendra Agarwal

Citation: Commended for breaking new ground in project management and budgetary procurement, developing innovative techniques and systems that offer greater clarity and value.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: Today we celebrate excellence in recognizing Mr. Agarwal’s exceptional dedication and professionalism in providing expert engineering and project management support, and ensuring operational success in air-to-air refueling and air mobility missions for the RCAF. Mr. Agarwal is being recognized for his outstanding leadership on multiple key projects which have ensured sustainment and modernization of the CC150 Polaris fleet while realizing tens of millions of dollars in cost savings to the Government of Canada. He provides strong stewardship of DND resources, collaborates with industry partners, foreign government partners, numerous DND and other governmental stakeholders to provide outstanding support to the sustainment of the CC150 fleet. Mr. Agarwal contributed significantly to the operational success of the CC150 fleet; he sets a gold standard in weapon system management, and is deserving of this prestigious DM/CDS Excellence in Defence award.

Awarded to: Nanette Fliesser

Citation: Commended for the highest standard of professional excellence in project management, using her superior organizing and communications skills to complement necessary security in construction requirements.

Virtual “Shout-Out” from the Nominator: Ms. Fliesser is the Project Manager for the Canadian Special Operations Regiment facilities projects in Petawawa, the Canadian Joint Incident Response Unit facilities project in Trenton, the Joint Task Force 2 facilities project at Dwyer Hill and the Canadian Special Operations Training Centre project in Petawawa. The direct impact of her excellence in project management resulted in the Canadian Special Operations Regiment facilities project delivering 50,591 m2 of building space and a first-of-its-kind indoor zero templates firing range on schedule despite the pandemic and a two-month sheet metal workers strike. Ms. Fliesser is deeply respected by her peers whom she regularly assists with all aspects of project management and construction issues. As a prolific contributor to the Infrastructure Security working group, she organized a Security in Infrastructure symposium that lead to the identification and resolution of 22 significant issues with security in construction. Ms. Fliesser sets an incredibly high standard for professionalism and dedication to her work. Her peers are inspired by her example of leadership and assistance. Her managers remain in awe of her capacity for work, huge intellect and professional knowledge.

Awarded to: Mila Little

Citation: Commended for providing exceptional specialist engineering support following the Humboldt, Saskatchewan bus crash in her role as manager of the technical investigation.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: Congratulations to Mila Little for winning a 2021 Celebrating Excellence Award in recognition of her exceptional specialist engineering support to Transport Canada’s investigation of the tragic Humboldt, Saskatchewan bus crash. Through persistence and hard work she advanced the understanding of contributing factors in the accident, and the results will contribute to the Governments goal of continuous improvement in road safety. Well done!

Awarded to: Trevor Mattie

Citation: Commended for selfless service to your peers, for elevating the professional atmosphere at your department, and for identifying and completing key tasks on your own initiative.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: It is my great honour to know and work with Trevor. As an employee, he strives to make himself and the members of CFB Halifax Fire Department happy and safe. The vital work ethic he provides enhances the quality of life in the fire hall and makes a significant impact on the base. Trevor’s commitment to selfless acts, undying professionalism and the numerous sacrifices he has made in this Fire Department have never gone unnoticed and he has touched the lives of all the members. I offer you our sincerest gratitude and this Award has been well earned, from your years of contributions to the Fire Department and we all celebrate in your success. Congratulations!! - Chris Wagner, Zac MA and the members of CFB Halifax Fire Department

Awarded to: Tim Smith

Citation: Commended for professional achievement and technical innovation in the domain of strategic vaccine and medical diagnostic systems sustainability.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: Congratulations to Tim Smith from Canadian Forces Health Services. Your outstanding leadership, professionalism and knowledge ensured the successful transfer of the Government of Canada smallpox vaccine national strategic stockpile from the manufacturer to the Public Health Agency of Canada. Your efforts and stewardship during the COVID-19 pandemic advanced the procurement and fielding of critical CAF medical capability which facilitated accurate and rapid diagnosis of COVID-19 infections in military personnel at home and around the world.

Awarded to: DND Technical Air Worthiness Program

David Hurst
Pamela Lewis

Mrs. Lewis and Mr. Hurst overcame numerous challenges related to the pandemic to achieve results. They developed a practical process for technical airworthiness throughout the entire life cycle of aircraft fleets. Mr. Hurst provided risk management support to resume flying operations for the CH148 Cyclone while leading in-depth reviews of engine and escape system reliability.

Mrs. Lewis guided the certification of the CC144 Challenger Aircraft remotely, developing a workable method for future projects, and helped navigate complex contractual issues with Transport Canada Civil Aviation for sharing information on airworthiness insight. They provide quality leadership of the highest professional standard.

Awarded to: Investment Plan 2022 Team

Mark Cameron, Lisa Dodd, Helen Duong, Jean-François Flores, Rene Haddad, Guy Leclerc, Lisa Liang, Ryan Powell, LCdr Félix Rancourt, Anna Wilkinson

The Investment 2022 Team went above and beyond their call of duty in creating a triennial investment plan, one with enormous scope and reliance on forward thinking, innovation and applied integration to link key reports and activities across a broad scope of activities. They developed this document under an aggressive timeline, creating a cohesive financial narrative that clearly described Departmental activities with Investment Management. CAF Environments, L1 Officers, and all pertinent stakeholder perspectives are well represented. The systematic manner in which they developed such a complex and innovational document relied upon collaboration and engagement with professional counterparts across multiple organizations.

Awarded to: Tony Ghoman

Citation: Commended for strong leadership and navigation through multiple projects of a complex technical nature with success, and for creating a work environment of trust, fairness and respect while doing so.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: Tony, I speak for many when I say this: You are a humble and honest man. You exemplify true leadership; you are true to your word and your actions are led by equality and integrity. You care more about lifting others for the greater good than yourself. Compassion and respect define your core, which is why the team did not falter in your leadership when the pandemic shocked us. Congratulations on this well-deserved award!

Awarded to: Quoc-Dung Nong

Citation: Commended for outstanding technical and mentorship abilities and for diffusing knowledge concerning the applications and solutions required to maintain and manage network resources.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: Throughout his long career in public service, he ensured that critical applications were highly available. When there was a complex problem that needed to be resolved, the first response was often: “Call QD!”, as we knew that he could lead the resolution of the problem. Even more importantly, his team members were extraordinarily well appreciated, mentored and supported, resulting in new successful team leaders in the Public Service.

Awarded to: Phillip Pearce

Citation: Commended for the exceptional contributions to accident and failure investigation within DND, enabling authorities to make timely risk management decisions, improve personnel safety and maintain operational readiness.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: Congratulations to Phillip Pearce for winning a 2021 Celebrating Excellence Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to accident and failure investigation within DND over many years. His dedication and attention to detail exemplifies the professionalism of members within the department and his efforts have been a source of pride for all who have had the privilege to work with him. Thank you for your service!

Awarded to: John T. Clark

Citation: Commended for leadership, development planning and maintenance of a safe working environment, and improving technology infrastructure to enhance unit capabilities.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator: John, congratulations and thank you for your dedicated service to the 3rd Canadian Division. Your expertise and advice motivate and inspire the G6 section every day and your efforts enriches the support received by the formations. Your initiatives, such as Wi-Fi expansion and information technology infrastructure projects, has advanced all aspects of readiness and administrative support with our Area of Operation. Your military experience and your knowledge as the divisional technical authority has advanced and improved IT/IS support in immeasurable ways. Well deserved!

Awarded to: LCol Benoit Mainville

Citation: Commended for creative partnerships and expanding regional and local involvement in valuable security and youth programs, improving the social and cultural foundations of our society.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator:I am delighted that the excellent work of Lieutenant Colonel (LCol) Benoit Mainville, Commander of the 2 Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, has been recognized and that he has received the John Forster Award for collaboration. By establishing strong and long-lasting connections with all of the communities in his territory and by positioning his organization to face the challenges of the future, he has promoted the development and modernization of the Canadian Rangers and the Junior Canadian Rangers Program. LCol Mainville helped exceed expectations surrounding the priorities of the Government and of National Defence. For his extraordinary dedication and commitment, he greatly deserves this recognition.

Brigadier-General Stéphane Boivin, Commander 2 Canadian Division and Joint Task Force (East)

Awarded to: Élise Vallée

The impact that Mrs. Élise Vallée had on the quality of life and well-being of personnel under her stewardship can hardly be understated. As the pandemic began, she moved into action, creating initiatives and programs to ensure personnel within the 2nd Division would remain agile and combat ready. With close monitoring and continuous support and surveys through useful interpersonal resources, she allowed staff to better understand and manage their own well-being. She created a comprehensive document for this purpose that included gender-based analysis plus guidelines to ensure equity and set up events and seminars to bolster personnel health and morale.

Awarded to: Canadian Ranger Patrol Group (2 CRPG) Quartermaster Team

OCdt Laurie Berichon, Sgt Maxime Boucher, Cpl Yan Boucher, MCpl Marc-André Caron, Cpl Patrick Desloges, Simon Ladouceur, Roger Martin, Cpl Olivier Potvin

We recognize the contributions from the 2 CRPG Quartermaster Team in meeting pandemic-related challenges and providing quality service to their units. Besides moves on short notice, they also oversaw preparation and design of a customized weapons storage vault and the execution of equipment transfer and commencing operations. This was done while adhering to procurement processes to implement new Canadian Army Guidelines using the Canadian Forces Supply software. The technical acumen and dedication of this Team, as well as their consistency and focus ensured continuity and military readiness for themselves and other companies whom they assist.

Awarded to: Cadet 365 Implementation Team

Lt(N) Stephen Armitage, Maj Sarah Bédard, Capt Paul Davison, Brendan Innes, Capt Amber Lawson, Capt Jeffrey, Meaney, Maj Adam Neish

Thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Cadets & Junior Canadian Rangers Formation team, the pandemic presented an opportunity for increasing digital modernization through the Cadet365 initiative. This program allowed critical IT requirements through marked improvement in areas such as collaboration, architecture enhancement, social media feedback utilization and greater IT efficiency through a smaller digital footprint. Ensuring the availability of virtual training centres was vital during the pandemic due to the cancellation of in-person programs. Enabling these programs to continue online meant continuity and long-term communication solutions to facilitate digital collaboration across the Cadet and Canadian Junior Ranger organizations.

Awarded to: MCpl Matthew Hauck

As an SOF operator within the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command, MCpl Matthew Hauck has established the Culture Advisory Team to assist CAF members who are having difficulty coping with stress, workplace pressures, or personal issues that are preventing them from serving with a sense of well-being. He is the go-to operator within his unit due to his interpersonal skills and track record of success in engaging with personnel when they are in distress or in need of resources to help them cope with emerging stress factors. This has enabled him to promote intercultural respect and awareness for Indigenous peoples.

Awarded to: DND TB Submissions Team

Anton Bezglasnyy, Kaitlyn Brennan, Jean-François Flores, Suzanne Natale, Sean Pollick, Allain Roy

The DND TB submissions team was integral in enabling the Government of Canada to fulfill its commitment to provide military aid to Ukraine during a critical timeframe. The agility and creativity that your team displayed was notable, such as when they completed the crucial Treasury Board submission in one week, a process that normally takes several months or longer. Not only did their determination and innovation meet the objective for this mission, but they also provided ongoing flexibility and useful examples to serve as templates for large-scale submissions, saving time and money for the Canadian Forces and DND personnel into the future.

Awarded to: ADM(HR-Civ) Vaccination Policy Implementation Team

Nathan Beck, Alexa Bernabo. Allison Cunningham. Maxim Kuntz-Démoré, Sheila Lacroix, Benoit Legault, Mary Newell

The ADM(HR-CIV) Vaccination Policy Implementation Team has effectively engaged with stakeholders across a broad spectrum of the federal government, providing superior, ongoing leadership throughout the pandemic, especially when the federal mandate was announced, where federal employees were required to confirm their vaccination status in November 2021. They ensured safe and accurate administration of staff vaccinations allowing DND and CAF staff to fulfil their duties in an atmosphere of trust and continuity. The Team’s ability to navigate communications, data analytics, labor relations, compensation and information management ensured the success of their mandate and safe vaccinations for all staff under their jurisdiction.

Awarded to: Continental Defence MC Team

Shannon Adams, Meagen Bell, Kelly Cambridge, Col Gabriel Doré, Nick Grondin, Danielle Lawlor, Charline Leduc-Marcoux, Debbie McCosham, LCol Edmund Roberds, LCdr Kyle Tetro

The Continental Defence MC Team has proven a unique asset to the Department. They produced a superior proposal, a work of craftsmanship and large-scale projections in terms of costing and military capabilities over the next 5 decades. Their successful collaboration with other departments was characterized by generous mentorship and a willingness to share their professional knowledge with everyone involved. The methodologies they developed were developed with multiple key stakeholders and praised by Treasury Board for their sophisticated approach. The Team brings matchless energy and synergy to their work, developing quality documents and ensuring valuable knowledge transfer to other Defence organizations.

Awarded to: Todd Stride

Citation: As the Associate Director, Community Development for Military Family Services, Mr. Todd Stride is recognized for his exceptional leadership and innovation resulting in creating highly successful programs that enhance the lives of CAF families.

With the start of COVID-19, Mr. Stride immediately recognized the need to expand programs to support the CAF families, and implemented an expanded telemedicine network and increased virtual career fairs within the first two months, all which have proven to be highly successful and appreciated.

Mr. Stride’s leadership in the Seamless Canada file and the Veterans Affairs Canada transition programs, are nothing short of exceptional. He has been instrumental in leading the expansion of the Military Spousal Employment Network (MSEN) with ongoing briefings to senior DND and CAF executives, meticulously preparing material for Cabinet submissions, and briefing ministerial and policy staff on an ongoing basis. As the lead in MFS for Seamless Canada initiatives, Mr. Stride continually connects with provinces and territories to enhance the mobility of CAF families.

Mr. Stride is the epitome of professionalism in all aspects of his work, and his drive and energy to promote the needs of CAF families to all stakeholders is exemplary.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator:“Todd Stride is recognized for his leadership and innovative approach in creating and expanding programs to support CAF families. Recognizing the unique needs of CAF families during COVID-19, he expanded existing programs to fill essential gaps in services and increased delivery to support these families in need. His enthusiasm, creativity and leadership are exemplary and his expertise has been sought after by executives in other departments and is a credit to the SNPF and an avid ambassador for the CAF.” (Col Telah Morrison)

Awarded to: Jason Feyko

Citation: As the National Manager, Solider On, for Personal Support Programs, Mr. Jason Feyko is recognized for his exceptional leadership, innovation and dedication resulting in the modernization and growth of the Soldier On program during a particular challenging year.

Mr. Feyko empowered his committed team to rapidly pivot to provide creative and impactful programming to the Solider On membership both in a virtual and physical environment. Always aligning with local, provincial, and territorial restrictions, he ensured that the unwavering support offered to the ill and injured community never faltered.

Mr. Feyko has well positioned the Solider On program to serve an ever-growing and diversified membership base with a flexible and impactful mandate. Mr. Feyko’s exemplary dedication, leadership, and commitment to the ill and injured community has been vital in aiding in the ongoing recovery of thousands of Soldier On members and their families through sports and creative arts. His professionalism in all aspects brings great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces, Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services, and Personal Support Programs.

Virtual “Shout-out” from the Nominator:“Jason Feyko is recognized for his commitment to the ill and injured community. His dedication and leadership has been integral to the growth of the Soldier On program as he led it through its modernization and major expansion project. Jay worked tirelessly with a myriad of different stakeholder groups to affect the growth and re-alignment of Soldier On as a PSP program. His visionary leadership will ensure the long-term success of Soldier On as it serves an ever growing segment of the military and veteran community.” (Joseph Kiraly, Senior Manager Soldier On)

Awarded to: Ryan Veysey, Fitness and Sports Instructor, CFB Esquimalt

Mr. Ryan Veysey is recognized for embracing the growth and developmental opportunity to support the research development, trial implementation and program evaluation of the Navy’s Maritime Tactical Operator (MTO) Preparation and Selection process. His professionalism and leadership skills anchored the strong relationship and trust that PSP established with the Operational unit (NTOG). Mr. Veysey quickly became an essential member of the Human Performance Team by providing reliable, creative and adaptable support, highlighting the value of HQ and local staff working as one PSP team.

Awarded to: Annie Cote, Senior Manager, PSP, CFB Bagotville

Ms. Cote’s exemplary leadership of the CFB Bagotville PSP Team promotes and motivates her team, CFMWS support divisions and stakeholders to accomplish the many annual objectives. Ms. Cote’s leadership style builds confidence, potential and resilience within her small but mighty team. She enhances CFMWS’ reputation to ensure CAF leadership goals are achieved by the PSP personnel continuing to provide exceptional, relevant Morale and Welfare programs. Ms. Cote is a positive and influential CFMWS Ambassador.

Awarded to: Dr. Alain Auger

As a pioneer in evidence-based foresight practice for decades, Dr. Alain Auger has increased Canada’s pre-emptive awareness in dealing with Emerging and Disruptive Technologies (EDT). His deep knowledge and abilities in risk assessment and forecasting has established him as an authority on technology watch and long-term defence strategy.

Through increased cooperation among NORAD and NATO counterparts, Dr. Auger produced a handbook for the international community with practical tools on developing stronger foresight capabilities. He also developed a prototype in cooperation with the NRC to anticipate EDTs and is noted for his inclusive and collaborative style with colleagues and military members.

Awarded to: Curtis Champaigne

Mr. Curtis Champaigne is a fitting choice for the Unsung Hero award, for his central role in completing the Sea to Shore Connector system, where he helped develop a modular self-propelled pontoon barge system. This unique component can be stored in a compact manner, capable of transporting up to 80 tons of supplies, personnel, or equipment at speeds reaching up to 5 knots, able to launch from a Joint Support Ship without any additional infrastructure. His supervision and detail-oriented leadership has provided the RCN with first-class naval capability for combat operations, and a vital component of Strong, Secure and Engaged.

Awarded to: Dr. Raluca Voicu

Dr. Raluca Voicu has made outstanding scientific contributions in the field of Defence Energy and Environmental strategy, working as a Senior Program Scientist for the Strategic Joint Staff. She displays that rare combination of talent and humility, one who stays ahead and informed on national and global energy policy, quietly working behind the scenes to ensure smooth transfer and retention of knowledge throughout the entire defence organization and across the federal government. Her professional coordination and communication ensure professional scientific advice and a holistic, future-oriented energy approach to sustainable and alternative fuels for the Defence organization as a whole.

Awarded to: 552 Air Control Wing Detachment

Sgt Stéphane Dion, MCpl Cherysh Moore

The 552 ACW Canadian Detachment is fortunate to have the outstanding leadership of Sgt Dion and MCpl Moore, who conduct joint operations with the United States Immediate Response Force and are fully embedded with their host USAF squadrons. Besides security and military operations, the team also manages financial approvals and streamline administrative procedures, executing their plans under severely tight deadlines They guide their unit in the management of high-paced deployment and travel requirements where they participate in US strategic operations in regions like the Middle East and provide support to a variety of international missions with shifting priorities and locations.

Awarded to: Laura Keays

Ms. Laura Keays stepped into and filled a vital role as a dental clerk who oversaw booking and administrative responsibilities for nearly 9,000 CAF members. This was especially impressive given that she did not have a dental background, yet she was able to learn how to process referrals, liaise with civilian offices, and handle finances and related record keeping duties for such a large volume of patients. Ms. Keays became well known for her professionalism and for being pleasant, accommodating, and genuinely concerned for all patients who came to the clinic seeking dental care. She is truly an unsung hero.

Awarded to: Sgt Robert Lamontagne

Sgt Robert Lamontagne has demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills combined with professional intelligence and problem-solving skills. Serving as a dental clerk and administrative assistant, he has extended himself to help personnel with additional needs outside of dental care and assisted them in finding resources or directing them to the proper channels. Sgt. Lamontagne was noted for his excellent communication and improvement of processes over time, proactively making adjustments to enhance and streamline clinic processes to benefit patients wherever possible. His work ethic and personable approach towards staff were invaluable in improving the services and atmosphere at the clinic where he worked.