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Excellence in action: Honouring Defence Team members

October 28, 2025 - Defence Stories

This year, the Associate Deputy Minister, Natasha Kim, on behalf of the Deputy Minister (DM) and Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) presented 89 deserving recipients with Celebrating Excellence Awards (CEA), which took place on October 21, 2025.

These awards represent the highest expression of recognition within the Defence Team and highlight the achievements of exemplary individuals and teams who provided outstanding service and contribute to the tradition of excellence that we continue to uphold. This includes 32 Celebrating Excellence Awards across six award categories.

“This ceremony was an inspiring occasion that honoured the significant efforts of individuals and teams who demonstrated their commitment to excellence in serving Canada and Canadians. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination earlier this year. Let’s continue to celebrate the successes.”

General Jennie Carignan,
Chief of the Defence Staff

“This year’s recipients exemplify innovation, professionalism, dedication, and respect. Each recipient contributed to advancing the Defence Team’s mandate and mission. While it’s easy to keep our heads down and focus on the work at hand, it is important to also celebrate success. We encourage you to use the Corporate awards program (Accessible only on the National Defence network) or your respective L1’s programs to recognize and congratulate your colleagues’ work.”

Stefanie Beck,
Deputy Minister of National Defence

Join us in congratulating the 2025 Celebrating Excellence Awards recipients in the following categories:

CDS Distinguished Achievement Award

This award is presented to full-time and part-time Non-Public Funds (NPF) employees who had a positive and substantial impact, directly or indirectly on the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) or the CAF community.

Anna Smyth

Anna is commended for her exceptional work and impact on the CAF community for spearheading the development, implementation, and evaluation of the Prenatal and Postpartum Program, addressing unique needs of women in the military. Recognizing systemic barriers to participation for new mothers, Anna also advocated for a policy change to allow infants in fitness facilities. Her contributions significantly enhanced the physical, social, and mental well-being of women in the military and made a lasting impact on the military community.

Nancy Coelho

Nancy is commended for her exceptional leadership as the head of the Partnership Innovation Team for the Royal Canadian Air Force Centennial campaign. She played a pivotal role in driving over $1 million in merchandise sales, securing $1.6 million in sponsorships, and influencing key policy developments. Her initiatives, including a Guinness World Record and the launch of GAME FORCE ESPORTS, strengthened community engagement, supported CAF reconstitution efforts and enhanced the financial sustainability of CFMWS.

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DM John Forster Collaboration Award

This award celebrates individuals or teams that exemplify collaboration, engagement, and information-sharing with internal and external stakeholders. Through outstanding partnerships and stakeholder engagement, nominees contribute significantly to advancing Defence or whole-of-government priorities.

Canadian Armed Forces Recruitment Team

Recruiting the next generation of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members has been one of the Defence Team’s most urgent and complex priorities. The CAF Recruitment Team rose to this challenge with extraordinary collaboration, innovation, and leadership — achieving a historic milestone of enrolling 6,706 new members in a single year, the highest intake in over a decade.

This remarkable success reflects a whole-of-Defence Team effort, spanning recruitment, screening, training, and onboarding. The team modernized intake processes, broke down systemic barriers, and relentlessly drove performance at every stage of the recruitment funnel. Their efforts resulted in a net growth of more than 2,000 Regular Force personnel, directly strengthening operational readiness.

Through bold strategies, open communication, and engagement with partners across government and industry, the team transformed an urgent strategic goal into an operational success. Their achievement stands as a model of perseverance, innovation, and teamwork so that the CAF is better prepared for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

National Security and Intelligence Review & Oversight Secretariat Management Team

In mid-2024, the National Security and Intelligence Review and Oversight Secretariat Management Team reinvigorated a pan-government working group to tackle one of the most complex challenges in government — the external review of national security and intelligence (NSI).

Bringing together more than 15 federal departments and agencies, the team advanced a whole-of-government approach to issues such as information redactions, review scope, and access. Their leadership fostered trust, transparency, and collaboration across organizations that must balance sensitive security requirements with accountability to Canadians.

By leveraging digital tools and creating a sustainable forum for dialogue, they engaged over 30 stakeholders nationwide and established a community of practice committed to ongoing improvement. Their work not only strengthened Canada’s ability to navigate sensitive NSI review requirements but also set a model for cross-government coordination, professionalism, and public service stewardship.

The team’s efforts reflect inclusive, values-driven leadership — leading with transparency and accountability.

Canadian Armed Forces Drug Exception Centre Team

The CAF Drug Exception Centre (CFDEC) team made a profound difference in providing CAF members with access to critical medications not listed on the Drug Benefit List. In the face of growing demand and increasingly complex cases, this five-member team modernized adjudication processes, streamlined access to care, and built meaningful partnerships with drug agencies and support programs.

Their efforts delivered tangible results, including the successful biosimilar switching initiative and the integration of Product Listing Agreements, which improved care while reducing costs. At the same time, the team supported the Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and provided essential system updates on time.

Known for their empathy and professionalism, the CFDEC team has become a trusted resource across the Defence Team. Their dedication enhances the health and well-being of CAF members, strengthens operational readiness, and exemplifies how quiet innovation and collaboration can create lasting impact.

Assistant Deputy Minister (Public Affairs) Multimedia, Royal Canadian Air Force Director Air Public Affairs, and Air Division/Wing Public Affairs Teams

To mark the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) 100th anniversary, ADM(PA), D Air PA, and Air Division/Wing PA teams launched one of the most comprehensive communications campaigns in Defence history.

Over the course of a year, these teams worked together to deliver over 200 digital products, 30 videos, two national livestreams, and hundreds of social media posts — generating more than 13 million impressions. Their collaborative storytelling and strategic outreach elevated awareness of the RCAF’s proud history and bright future.

Signature efforts such as the Battle of Britain livestream and the Canada Day Mass Flypast video earned national praise and captured the imagination of Canadians. By aligning messages across regional and national events, they created a digital legacy that supports recruiting, modernization, and pride in service.

This campaign set a new standard for joint communications and public outreach, showcasing creativity, professionalism, and the power of collaboration.

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DM/CDS Organizational Culture Award

This award recognizes individuals or teams who excel in understanding, adopting, and advancing the mindsets and behaviours needed to address the evolving needs of the Defence Team. Nominees are committed to addressing cultural issues and driving meaningful reform.

Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Team

The Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention (WHVP) Team transformed how workplace conflict is addressed across the Defence Team. Since 2021, they supported more than 2,000 requests, and in 2024 resolved 78% of cases informally, delivering faster outcomes and saving the organization over $1 million.

In 2025, the team led a major modernization that unified Department of National Defence and CAF harassment programs, aligning with the Independent External Review’s recommendations and advancing culture change. Their extensive engagement, which reached nearly 7,000 Defence Team members, reflects their deep commitment to transparency, diversity, and employee well-being.

Recognized as a government-wide leader, the WHVP Team also provides guidance to other departments on conflict resolution and best practices. Their work built trust across the Defence Team and positioned us as a model for harassment and violence prevention.

Through empathy, innovation, and dedication, this team strengthened safety, equity, and accountability, leaving a legacy of culture change.

Restorative Practitioner Team – First Executive Cohort of the Restorative Engagement Program

The Senior Restorative Practitioners for the first Executive Cohort of the Restorative Engagement Program played a transformative role in advancing culture change across the Defence Team.

With compassion, integrity, and resilience, they created trauma-informed spaces where survivors of sexual misconduct and senior leaders could engage in open and honest dialogue. These conversations were deeply meaningful, advancing institutional accountability and healing, and influencing leadership decisions that will shape the Defence Team for years to come.

Drawing from diverse professional backgrounds — including health care, justice, and advocacy — the practitioners modelled empathy and values-based leadership. Their ability to earn the trust of survivors while guiding leaders through emotionally complex processes reflects their quiet yet powerful influence.

Their work stands as a milestone in the Defence Team’s ongoing journey toward culture change, demonstrating how compassion and courage can drive lasting transformation.

Carla Berstch

Carla Bertsch became a driving force for culture change within the Defence Team through her leadership, compassion, and transformative vision. As a senior restorative practitioner with the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre, she co-developed the Restorative Engagement Program, enabling survivors of sexual misconduct to engage in meaningful dialogue with Defence leaders.

Carla is also a respected national voice in gender-based violence prevention and intersectional equity. She delivers workshops that challenge systemic barriers, fosters allyship, and advances inclusive practices. Her work institutionalized trauma-informed approaches and shaped programming that centres healing and accountability.

A mentor, educator, and advocate, Carla leads with humility and care, elevating both her colleagues and the survivors she supports. Her efforts have not only reshaped policy and practice but also positioned the Defence Team as a leader in inclusive, survivor-centred engagement. Her legacy is one of courage, empathy, and lasting cultural transformation.

Robert Houghton

As Occupational Health and Safety Technician at CFB Halifax, Robert Houghton transformed workplace safety through innovation, mentorship, and proactive leadership.

He forged a strategic alliance with the Nova Scotia Community College, creating valuable on-the-job training for students while enhancing the Defence Team’s reputation as an employer of choice. Robert also developed a comprehensive onboarding program and a digital Safety SharePoint, providing employees with easy access to critical resources. His swift action in identifying and mitigating an airborne hazard protected personnel health and reinforced safety protocols.

Beyond these initiatives, Robert advanced hazardous materials management and implemented real-time hazard monitoring, driving a culture of accountability and continuous improvement across multiple sites. His collaborative spirit, technical expertise, and dedication strengthened safety standards and operational readiness, leaving a lasting impact on the Defence Team.

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DM/CDS Modernization and Transformation Award

This award recognizes individuals or teams who demonstrate outstanding leadership and innovation in transforming Defence operations and business processes. It celebrates those who drive fundamental changes – beyond incremental improvements – through strategic adoption of culture, technology, policies, and processes to optimize Defence Readiness and decision-making capabilities.

Finance-Administration-Rapport-Organisation Team (FARO)

The FARO Team revolutionized financial services delivery in the Canadian Army through the creation of an innovative application that optimizes processes, reduces environmental impact, and improves transparency.

Developed in collaboration with Information Technology (IT) Services, the FARO application automates administrative tasks, integrates secure electronic signatures, and enables real-time transaction tracking. It also provides managers with accurate productivity reports, supporting strategic planning and decision-making. By enabling remote management, FARO enables efficiency regardless of where personnel and clients are located.

Deployed across all four Canadian Army divisions and on overseas missions, the FARO application has become an essential tool for financial management. The team’s remarkable expertise, innovative spirit, and commitment to service excellence modernized financial operations and positioned the Army at the forefront of digital transformation.

Their work demonstrates how innovation and collaboration can deliver lasting improvements that strengthen both efficiency and accountability across the Defence Team.

Joshua Lavigne

As an IT-02 Mission Support Specialist with 427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron, Joshua Lavigne drove digital modernization that is transforming operations across the unit and beyond.

A former Special Operations Signaller, Joshua led the integration of mission planning systems, Electronic Flight Bags, and the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Cloud Team Awareness Kit TAK server, establishing 427 SOAS as a trailblazer in digital operations. He also spearheaded the rollout of the Joint Mission Planning Suite and introduced Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK) devices, improving security, efficiency, and collaboration.

Joshua became the first RCAF Cloud TAK administrator, supporting units across Canada and advancing the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) projects that directly strengthen operations and policy. His technical expertise, initiative, and collaborative approach earned him recognition as a trusted subject matter expert and a catalyst for digital transformation.

Through innovation and dedication, Joshua had an RCAF-wide impact, enhancing special operations aviation capabilities and setting a benchmark for future modernization efforts.

Major Sébastien Royal

Major Sébastien Royal exemplifies innovation and strategic leadership through the transformation of IT and financial management systems within his unit. Recognizing the urgency to modernize, he led the transition from Army Collaborative Information Management System (ACIMS) to Microsoft 365 ahead of Canadian Armed Forces deadlines, rebuilding SharePoint architecture, preserving critical knowledge, and enabling seamless collaboration.

At the same time, he developed a custom financial tracking system that provides real-time budget visibility, empowering data-driven decisions and accountability. His foresight in standardizing processes, eliminating silos, and introducing automated workflows significantly enhanced operational efficiency.

By implementing targeted training and feedback mechanisms, Major Royal enabled long-term sustainability and user adoption. His dedication to people-first leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence positioned his unit for future success and set a benchmark for digital innovation and resource stewardship across the Defence Team.

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DM/CDS Excellence in Defence Award

This award celebrates individuals or teams at all levels whose contributions significantly advance the priorities of both the Department and the Government of Canada.

Leadership Excellence

This award celebrates individuals whose exceptional leadership drives success, inspires others, and significantly contributes to advancing Defence Team priorities.

Anne Rahming

Anne Rahming elevated culture change, gender integration, and intersectional analysis across the Defence Team through her transformative executive leadership. As Acting Deputy Director General of Culture and Executive Director of Gender Equality and Intersectional Analysis, she institutionalized the Gender Based Analysis + Enterprise Approach and led the creation of the Defence Team’s first Women, Peace, and Security Performance Measurement Framework.

Her leadership extends internationally, advising allied armed forces and delivering North Atlantic Treaty Organization-endorsed training. She also championed inclusive governance, realigned budgets, and built capacity across more than 70 files. By embedding inclusive analysis into planning, operations, and policy, Anne reshaped institutional culture and fostered trust.

Her people-first approach reflects humility, authenticity, and a commitment to equity. Anne’s vision and strategic foresight positioned the Defence Team as a national and global leader in intersectional policy innovation, leaving a legacy of inclusivity and transformation.

Sergeant Jessy Connolly

Sgt Jessy Connolly made an enduring impact on Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) recruitment by revitalizing the Air Maintenance Branch’s national outreach strategy. As Lead of the Air Attractions Team, they redesigned presentations, strengthened relationships with aviation colleges, and forged new partnerships with industry and recruitment stakeholders, significantly expanding the pool of semi-skilled applicants and advancing Operation RECONSTITUTION goals.

Through immersive engagement with students and static aircraft tours, Sgt Connolly inspired the next generation of technicians. They also coordinated major outreach events with precision, advocated for improvements in social media and processing systems, and informed leadership of structural challenges affecting recruitment.

With professionalism, passion, and a collaborative spirit, Sgt  Connolly left a legacy of innovation and inclusivity. Their efforts continue to strengthen RCAF recruitment and demonstrate the powerful role that outreach and mentorship play in shaping the future of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Annie Grenier

As Manager of Corporate Services at Real Property Operations Unit (Quebec), Annie Grenier transformed human resource (HR) practices and elevated leadership capacity across the region.

She spearheaded the creation of a regional employee retention plan, standardized HR practices, and introduced monthly HR info capsules, providing transparency and consistency. Most notably, Annie designed and launched the “Leadership Program,” a multi-year training initiative that supported more than 145 new and aspiring supervisors. The program tackles inclusion, emotional intelligence, performance management, and culture change, preparing participants for long-term success.

Annie’s inclusive approach fosters trust, collaboration, and professional growth. By empowering supervisors and building HR capacity, she strengthened organizational cohesion and enhanced credibility across the region. Her commitment to people-first leadership and innovation leaves a legacy of empowerment and institutional excellence within the Defence Team.

Rising Stars

This award celebrates individuals who showcase exceptional talent, commitment, and potential for future leadership, significantly contributing to advancing the Department’s goals.

Kendra Cooper

Kendra Cooper quickly distinguished herself as a Rising Star within Real Property Operations Unit (West) through her innovation, initiative, and adaptability. As Office Coordinator, she proactively filled critical gaps, independently mastered Power BI, and developed a staffing dashboard that improved decision-making and resource utilization. She also created a SharePoint tracker that is now used across the region, modernizing administrative functions and strengthening efficiency.

Kendra’s adaptability shone during staffing shortages, when she seamlessly supported detachments in Calgary, Moose Jaw, and Edmonton. She also enabled compliance with HR frameworks, mentored senior staff, and led community engagement initiatives such as a holiday donation drive and youth cheerleading coaching.

Her technical expertise, collaborative spirit, and unwavering positivity strengthened both workplace culture and community connections. Kendra’s impact extends well beyond her role, reflecting her potential as an emerging leader whose contributions inspire trust, inclusivity, and innovation across the Defence Team.

Élie Boulerice

As a systems engineer within the Common Heavy Equipment Replacement (CHER) program, Élie Boulerice is recognized for his technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and quiet leadership that have made him indispensable to the program’s success.

Élie’s innovative use of tools such as Dynamic Object-Oriented Requirements System (DOORS) and Excel streamlined the review and approval of complex requirements, significantly reducing workload for Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) during final reviews of Requests for Proposals. He also developed user-friendly tools and delivered specialized training that enhanced productivity across teams and strengthened collaboration.

Known for his willingness to help and his collaborative spirit, Élie advanced critical program milestones and earned recognition across multiple departments, including Director Land Procurement (DLP), Director Land Requirements (DLR), Integrated Logistics Support (ILS), Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), and senior management. His technical excellence, humility, and selfless support make him a true Rising Star whose contributions have had a lasting impact on program success and the Defence Team as a whole.

Major Nadine Abou Rjeily

Since joining Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Combat Camera in 2024, Major Nadine Abou Rjeily demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and drive. Rapidly promoted to Deputy Officer Commanding, she provided guidance to more than 20 personnel while continuing her responsibilities as Team Lead Public Affairs Officer. Her calm, decisive leadership strengthened operations, team cohesion, and strategic communications.

A champion of professional development, Major Abou Rjeily completed multiple advanced training courses while mentoring junior members and advocating for mental health and fairness. She coordinated complex taskings and outreach initiatives with maturity and precision, reflecting leadership well beyond her rank.

Her initiative, adaptability, and dedication to team development mark her as a future leader of distinction. Major Abou Rjeily’s contributions not only enhanced the effectiveness of Combat Camera but also set a high standard of excellence within the CAF.

Employment Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Reconciliation

This award celebrates individuals or teams who demonstrate exceptional leadership in fostering equity, diversity, inclusion and reconciliation, creating a more representative and inclusive Defence Team.

Air Simulation Program Team

The Air Simulation Program Team made groundbreaking contributions to reconciliation and inclusion within the Defence community. By creating an Indigenous Relations section within the Directorate of Air Simulation and Training, the team integrated Indigenous employees, developed mentorship opportunities, and built meaningful partnerships to ensure equitable participation in the Future Aircrew Training (FaCT) Program.

One of their most significant achievements was the creation of an Indigenous Participation Plan, which incorporates community-specific considerations and provides long-term benefits for Indigenous partners throughout the 25-year program. Their authentic and respectful approach to engagement built trust with Indigenous Nations and positioned the FaCT Program as a model of inclusive collaboration.

Through cultural respect, transparency, and shared purpose, the Air Simulation Program Team set a new benchmark for sustainable reconciliation. Their work exemplifies how inclusive leadership strengthens relationships, enhances operational outcomes, and leaves a legacy across the Defence Team.

Maryse Allain

Maryse Allain is a champion of accessibility, inclusion, and safety whose leadership made a lasting impact within the Corporate Secretariat and across the Defence Team. Living with severe hearing loss, Maryse drew from her lived experience to break down barriers and create more welcoming environments for all.

She established accessible SharePoint resources, launched Occupational Health and Safety working groups, and introduced tools such as the Accessibility Passport and emergency buddy systems. Her efforts allow the needs of persons with disabilities and LGBTQ+ employees to be heard, respected, and reflected in policy.

As a representative for the Defence Advisory Group for Persons with Disabilities and the Defence Team Pride Advisory Organization, Maryse modelled empathy and action. Her inclusive leadership through bilingual communication, adaptive technology, and committee work fosters empowerment and equity. Maryse’s passion, advocacy, and quiet strength make her a model public servant whose impact continues to inspire change across National Defence.

Major Shawna Mackey

Major Shawna Mackey embodies character-based leadership rooted in compassion, accountability, and inclusion. From the moment they joined 24 Canadian Forces Health Services Centre in Trenton, Maj Mackey prioritized listening to staff, acting on feedback, and improving working conditions.

By supporting Defence Advisory Groups, fostering respectful dialogue, and addressing misconduct with humility and accountability, Maj Mackey has championed the CAF Ethos and advanced culture change. Their partnerships enhanced clinic safety, expanded student practicum placements, and built stronger ties with the community, improving both recruitment opportunities and public trust.

Maj Mackey’s leadership directly improved morale, collaboration, and operational readiness. Their unwavering commitment to people-first leadership transformed the workplace and inspired colleagues across 8 Wing Trenton. Through compassion and integrity, Maj Mackey set an example of inclusive leadership that leaves a legacy of trust and respect.

Lieutenant-Colonel Aleem Sajan

LCol Aleem Sajan is recognized for his visionary leadership in advancing reconciliation at 5 Wing Goose Bay. Acknowledging the historical strain between Defence operations and Indigenous communities, he fostered respectful, trust-based partnerships that improved both relationships and operational outcomes.

In the context of low-level flying training, LCol Sajan’s inclusive and compassionate approach ensured that Indigenous voices are heard and reflected in decision-making. By actively listening, building trust, and engaging in sustained dialogue, he demonstrated that national security and reconciliation can coexist.

His efforts embody a profound commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation. Through integrity, compassion, and vision, LCol Sajan strengthened partnerships, enhanced operational effectiveness, and left an impact on how the Defence Team engages with Indigenous communities. His leadership sets a powerful example of how reconciliation and operational excellence go hand in hand.

Master Corporal Léonce Mugisha

MCpl Léonce Mugisha made lasting contributions to diversity and inclusion within the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) through his work as a specialist recruiter with the Air Maintenance Branch’s Air Attractions Team.

His leadership in bilingual outreach, particularly in Quebec, created sustainable recruitment pathways for underrepresented communities across Canada. By building strong relationships with educational institutions and producing French-language materials, he expanded access to CAF careers and strengthened trust among diverse talent pools.

MCpl Mugisha has also represented the RCAF at national events, including with the Black Aviation Professionals Network, furthering outreach and broadening representation. His collaborative and inclusive approach directly supports the Strategic Intake Plan and advances CAF priorities. Through dedication and vision, MCpl Mugisha enhanced representation, built trust, and left a legacy of inclusive recruitment that reflects the strength of Canada’s diversity.

Captain(N) Kevin Whiteside

Capt(N) Kevin Whiteside set a new benchmark for Indigenous engagement and reconciliation as Commanding Officer of Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt. Recognizing the importance of building authentic, trust-based relationships, he established the Pacific Indigenous Coordination Committee — a collaborative forum uniting the Defence Team and Defence Construction Canada to better align with Indigenous rights and priorities.

His leadership reflects the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, embedding inclusive project planning and respectful consultation into the way the Defence Team works. In 2025, the success of this model earned endorsement for national replication, a testament to Capt(N) Whiteside’s vision and impact.

Through consistent engagement, personal participation in ceremonies, and genuine partnership-building, he deepened accountability, enhanced operational outcomes, and advanced reconciliation. His example demonstrates how principled, inclusive leadership leaves a legacy for the Defence Team and the communities it serves.

Unsung Hero

This award celebrates individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes, exemplifying dedication, selflessness, and excellence in their contributions to the Defence Team. Their contributions may not always be in the spotlight, but their impact is unmistakable.

CFB Wainwright Environmental Services Team

The Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Wainwright Environmental Services Team showed extraordinary commitment in addressing one of Canada’s most pressing environmental challenges: managing legacy PFAS contamination. Since 2018, the team navigated regulatory uncertainty with technical expertise and foresight, ensuring safe operations and protecting the health of local communities.

Their leadership was pivotal in 2022, when they responded swiftly to a spill that threatened drinking water — successfully preventing contamination and reinforcing public trust. Today, the team continues to play a pioneering role, supporting one of the world’s first field-scale PFAS destruction trials, advancing Canada’s environmental response capabilities.

With quiet persistence and a sense of stewardship, the team upheld the Crown’s responsibilities while safeguarding both people and infrastructure. Their professionalism, integrity, and resilience have made CFB Wainwright a national leader in environmental accountability and left a legacy of service that will protect future generations.

Craig Proulx

For more than two decades, Craig Proulx led with distinction as a firefighter and leader, culminating in his current role as Fire Chief of the Garrison Petawawa Fire Department. Since taking command in 2022, he guided a team of 80 civilian employees across four stations, responding to hundreds of calls annually with professionalism and courage.

Craig’s leadership was pivotal during the June 2023 CH-147 Chinook crash, when his quick and decisive actions helped save the lives of two Canadian Armed Forces members. His calmness under pressure and commitment to service exemplify the highest standards of duty.

Beyond his work in the Defence Team, Craig also serves as Deputy and Acting Fire Chief for the Town of Petawawa and is deeply engaged in public safety and community initiatives, including youth hockey coaching. His dedication to both operational excellence and community service reflects compassion, mentorship, and integrity. Craig’s legacy is one of safety, trust, and service.

Pamela Horner

Pamela Horner is recognized as a trusted pillar of support, mentorship, and collaboration within her team. Known for her initiative, she developed essential tools such as procurement desk guides and cost estimation trackers that streamlined processes, improved accuracy, and reduced financial errors across her workplace.

More than her technical contributions, Pamela is valued for her patience, generosity, and willingness to help others succeed. She mentors her colleagues, shares knowledge openly, and cultivates a supportive environment where confidence and collaboration thrive. Her pedagogical approach fosters a culture of learning that elevates both individual growth and team performance.

Even amidst heavy workloads, Pamela’s steady presence and selfless support make her the go-to resource for peers and managers alike. She embodies the spirit of an Unsung Hero — demonstrating how humility, dedication, and care for others can transform a team and leave a lasting impact on workplace culture.

Keeley Young

Keeley Young embodies the spirit of an Unsung Hero through her energy, initiative, and unwavering positivity. As Administrative Assistant and Information System Security Officer (ISSO) for 21 Canadian Forces Health Services, she revitalized workplace wellness and recognition programs, launching initiatives such as the Spirit Awards and the Positive Change Challenge. These efforts strengthened morale, fostered community, and created a more supportive workplace culture across Med Unit British Columbia.

Keeley’s contributions extend beyond her daily responsibilities. She frequently volunteers her time to coordinate events and ceremonies, consistently going above and beyond to build team cohesion. Her dedication also reaches into the broader Comox community, where she contributes through volunteerism and board involvement.

Recognized as 19 Wing Civilian of the Year in 2022, Keeley continues to inspire through her kindness, leadership, and resilience. Her efforts created a ripple effect of positivity, leaving a legacy of inclusivity and care within both the Defence Team and her community.

Carmen Roy

On September 18, 2023, while on vacation and grieving the loss of her father, Carmen Roy saved a man’s life aboard a cruise ship by administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during a medical emergency. Her bravery, composure, and compassion under pressure exemplify true heroism and the highest values of service.

Beyond this extraordinary moment, Carmen is known for her consistent positivity, initiative, and willingness to support her colleagues. She became a quiet leader within her workplace, fostering unity and trust through her steady presence and care for others.

Her actions demonstrate resilience, empathy, and courage — qualities that inspire all who work alongside her. Carmen’s legacy is one of strength and compassion, showing that even in moments of personal difficulty, service to others remains a guiding principle. She is a shining example of the dedication and humanity at the heart of the Defence Team.

Beverley Grant

As Team Lead of the Privacy Breach Management Team, Beverley Grant exemplifies transformational leadership and systems thinking. She led the redesign of breach workflows to triage files based on risk, cutting average processing time by 40% and significantly reducing backlog. Her new intake model boosted team capacity, built confidence, and improved stakeholder satisfaction.

Beverley’s leadership is as people-focused as it is results-driven. She fosters team cohesion through mentorship, open communication, and inclusivity, creating an environment where innovation and professional growth thrive. Her ability to deliver lasting change while maintaining service excellence reflects both strategic foresight and deep empathy.

By combining technical improvements with a culture of care, Beverley improved program performance and created a model of efficiency and collaboration. Her legacy is one of quiet yet powerful leadership that inspires her colleagues and strengthens trust across the Defence Team.

Teresa Holmes

Teresa Holmes is recognized for her consistency, dedication, and quiet strength — qualities that have become essential to her team, Travel Contact Security (TCS)’s success. She brings structure, clear communication, and proactive follow-through to every file she manages, while routinely volunteering for cross-functional tasks and balancing competing demands with calm professionalism.

Her colleagues value her ability to step in wherever needed, providing support and solutions that foster trust and collaboration. Her strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and adaptability improve team performance and uplift workplace morale.

Teresa exemplifies humility and excellence in everything she does. A steady presence and a quiet force, she embodies the spirit of an Unsung Hero, leaving a lasting impact on workplace culture and the success of her team.

Dawn Porter

With nearly four decades of combined military and civilian service, Dawn Porter has dedicated her career to supporting the members of the Canadian Armed Forces’ Primary Reserves.

Known for her professionalism, compassion, and tireless work ethic, Dawn ensures that every Reserve member under CJOC’s responsibility receives timely, accurate, and respectful administrative support. From expediting hires to resolving complex pay issues, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure operational readiness and member well-being.

Her deep understanding of military culture—shaped by her own years of service—allows her to anticipate needs and provide exceptional care to those who serve. Through her quiet leadership and steadfast dedication, Dawn has become an indispensable pillar of support to her colleagues and the Primary Reserve community.

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DM Award of Distinction

This prestigious DM award recognizes exceptional contributions to advancing the Department of National Defence’s (DND) horizontal approach in managing business, service lines, and support functions.

River Class Destroyer Implementation Team

The River Class Destroyer (RCD) Implementation Team is recognized for its exceptional leadership, collaboration, and perseverance in one of the most complex defence procurements in Canadian history. Their efforts culminated in the successful award of the RCD implementation contract — a milestone that will recapitalize the Royal Canadian Navy’s combat fleet and strengthen Canada’s national defence for decades to come.

Working across DND, Public Services and Procurement Canada, central agencies, and multiple stakeholders, the team overcame extraordinary challenges under immense pressure. They delivered detailed cost analyses, secured reprofiled funding, developed a complex Treasury Board submission, and negotiated the final contract with precision and foresight.

Their transparent, enabling approach built trust with senior decision-makers and central agencies, ensuring timely, high-impact results. By fostering a whole-of-government mindset, they modelled perseverance, professionalism, and collaboration at its finest.

This achievement not only advances departmental and government priorities — it sets a new benchmark for enabling excellence and cross-organizational leadership in Defence procurement.

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2025-10-28