Annex H – Canadian Forces Medallion for Distinguished Service (CFMDS)

Table of contents

Introduction

Canadian Forces Medallion for Distinguished Service (CFMDS) was created in 1987 and is awarded by the CDS on behalf of the CF to recognize distinguished or outstanding service performed by persons other than active military personnel or service performed by civilian groups.

Awarded for service of a rare and exceptionally high standard, usually over a long period of time, which accrues great benefit to the CF as a whole.
The performance by civilian individuals of a specific deed or activity, beyond the demands of normal duty and limited in time, may instead be recognized by the CDS Commendation (refer to Annex G).
Only non-military service, i.e., service that is rendered while the person is not an active member of the CF or the armed forces of any other country, is eligible for consideration for this award.
Both Canadian and foreign citizens are eligible for this award. This includes civilian members of the Defence Team or any other Canadian government department or agency.
Members of the CF Supplementary Reserve are eligible for the award in recognition of non-military service.
Personnel holding honorary appointments are not eligible for the CFMDS, however they can be considered for the CDS Commendation or Command Commendations (refer to Annex G).

The CFMDS consists of a twelve-sided silver-coloured medallion, 76 mm across the points, bearing on the obverse the superimposed symbols of the three services: the anchor, the crossed swords and the flying eagle, topped by the Royal Crown, the whole superimposed on four maple leaves within a raised circle, on the edge of the medallion appear, between branches of laurel leaves, the inscriptions “DISTINGUISHED SERVICE” and “SERVICE DISTINGUÉ”.
The reverse displays a wreath of laurel and maple leaves around the perimeter leaving the center plain to allow the engraving of the recipient’s name.
The Medallion is accompanied by a scroll, bearing the badge of the CF embossed in gold, the name of the recipient and an appropriate citation, and signed by the CDS.

This award is a table medallion not intended to be worn.
Starting in 2015, a lapel badge shall accompany individual awards of the CFMDS.
Those persons who have been awarded a CFMDS since its design was changed on 1 Jan 2010 may contact the DH&R 5-2 by email to obtain a lapel badge.

The recipient is informed of the award through the chain of command and presented with their lapel badge for immediate wear.
The medallion and scroll are forwarded to the CDS’s office who will make presentation arrangements.