The presentation of the first DISTANTIA bars for remote warfare
June 25, 2026 – Defence Stories
Estimated read time: 1:39
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DISTANTIA was created to recognize those who participate in and have a direct impact on overseas operations from remote locations (especially from Canada) using technology. The DISTANTIA bar reflects the evolving nature of technology, warfare, and CAF capabilities.
On June 4, the first DISTANTIA bars to the Special Service Medal (SSM) were presented at Canadian Forces Station Leitrim in Ottawa.
In total, there were 14 recipients, including 12 civilians, both from the Department of National Defence (DND) and other governmental departments. The very first recipient of the new bar was Corporal Joelle Labissiere, Director Air Readiness working under the command of Canadian Forces Intelligence Command (Joint Intelligence Operations Centre).
The SSM was created by Queen Elizabeth II on May 29, 1984, to recognize members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who are taking part in activities and operations under exceptional circumstances which do not meet the criteria for other campaign or service medals.
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Major-General Dave Yarker, Commander Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command, presents the SSM to Corporal Joelle Labissiere on June 4.
The medal was expanded in 2014 to make eligible DND civilian employees and contractors, as well as allied military personnel serving under the CAF. Eligibility has recently been broadened, similar to that of the Operational Service Medal. All those who serve on behalf of Canada, including police officers, public servants, and government contractors, are now recognized in a similar fashion for their contribution to the success of Canadian operations.
On November 5, 2024, further changes to the SSM were made by the Governor General, on behalf of the King. A new bar called DISTANTIA was created to recognize those who participate in and have a direct impact on overseas operations from remote locations (especially from Canada) using technology.
The DISTANTIA bar reflects the evolving nature of technology, warfare, and CAF capabilities.
Eligible personnel must have accumulated either 180 consecutive days or an aggregate of 270 days, 60 of which are consecutive, of honourable service beginning on or after November 5, 2024.
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Major-General Dave Yarker, Commander Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command, presents the SSM to Master Corporal Cody Rigden on June 4.
Service must be performed either from Canada or outside Canada and not in a theatre of operations, for the specific purpose of remotely participating on a full-time basis in approved operations while working in approved roles.
Eligible members will have participated in either the personal employment of weapons systems or the delivery of targeted effects, enabled by technology, which has a tangible effect in the theatre of operations or the potential for such an effect.
Service credited to the DISTANTIA bar cannot be counted towards any other Canadian or foreign service medal and is not retroactive.
Additional details may be found at Special Service Medal (SSM).