March 26, 2007
OTTAWAGeneral Rick J. Hillier, Chief of the Defence Staff, presented the Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division) to Admiral Timothy John Keating on behalf of Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, during a private ceremony held on Friday, March 23, 2007, in Colorado Springs, United States of America.
The following text is the official citation for Admiral Keating:
Admiral Timothy John Keating, M.S.C.Peterson Air Force Base, United States of AmericaMeritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
As commander of the North American Aerospace Defence Command and United States Northern Command from November 2004 to February 2007, Admiral Keating of the United States Navy provided outstanding assistance to Canada. His vision and support for the common defence of North America contributed significantly to the advancement of defence programs critical to Canada. His leadership, astute initiative and clear direction ushered in the maritime warning mission for the North American Aerospace Defence Command. Admiral Keating's efforts and keen understanding of his Command's vital roles have contributed to continental security and constitute unique and unparalleled service to Canada.
The Meritorious Service Decorations include a military division and a civil division, with two levels each: a medal and a cross. The military division recognizes individuals for their outstanding professionalism and for bringing honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada. The civil division recognizes individuals who have performed an exceptional deed or an activity that brought honour to the community or to Canada.
These decorations are an important part of the Canadian honours system, which recognizes excellence. Meritorious Service Decorations honour either a single achievement or an activity over a specified period. The Meritorious Service Decorations are open to both Canadians and non-Canadians. Anyone may nominate an individual for the civil division of the Meritorious Service Decorations, while military candidates are recommended by the chief of the defence staff. Nominations and awards may be made posthumously, but nominations for activities that occurred prior to June 1984, the year in which the honour was first created, are not accepted.
For more information on the Meritorious Service Decorations, please visit our Web site at www.gg.ca.
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Media informationMarie-Paule ThornRideau Hall Press Office613‑993-2569
Media Liaison Office National Defence613‑996-2353613‑996-2354
