September 24, 2007
OTTAWAHer Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, announced the award of one Medal of Military Valour to a member of the Canadian Forces who displayed gallantry and devotion to duty in combat. She also announced the award of 24 Meritorious Service Decorations (Military Division), namely three Crosses and 21 Medals, to individuals whose specific achievements have brought honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.
The recipients will be invited to receive their decoration at a presentation ceremony at a later date.
MILITARY VALOUR DECORATIONSMedal of Military Valour
Sergeant Derek John Scott Fawcett, M.M.V., C.D.
Meaford and Ottawa, Ont.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONSMeritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Simon Charles Hetherington, M.S.C., C.D.
Ottawa, Petawawa and Oakville, Ont.
Lieutenant-Colonel Jean-Marc Lanthier, M.S.C., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont. and Gatineau, Que.
Brigadier-General Donald Joseph Quenneville, M.S.C.
Plymouth, Maine, United States of America
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer John Gerard Barnes, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa and Pembroke, Ont., and St. John's, N.L.
Chief Warrant Officer Stephen Stanley Bartlett, M.S.M., C.D.
Oromocto, Nasonworth and St. Stephen, N.B.
Major J.M. François Bisaillon, M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston, Ont. and Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que.
Lieutenant-Colonel Shane Anthony Brennan, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont.
Chief Warrant Officer Joseph Claude Caron, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Toronto and Courtice, Ont., and Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, Que.
Lieutenant-Colonel John David Conrad, M.S.M., C.D.
Toronto, Orono and Listowel, Ont.
Major Mark Anthony Gasparotto, M.S.M.
Oromocto and Fredericton, N.B.and London, Ont.
Commander Darren Carl Hawco, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont. and Pierrefonds, Que.
Master Corporal Lance Thomas Hooper, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Beachburg and Lindsay, Ont.
Major Gregory Wayne Ivey, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ont.
Lieutenant-Colonel Colin Roy Keiver, M.S.M., C.D.
Winnipeg, Manitoba and Three Hills, Alta.
Colonel Frederick A. Lewis, M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston, Ont.
Major Andrew John Lussier, M.S.M., C.D.
Denison, Alta., Petawawa, Ont. and Montréal, Que.
Captain Steven Kelly MacBeth, M.S.M., C.D.
Wainwright, Alta. and Whitby, Ont.
Master Warrant Officer Bradley William John Montgomery, M.S.M., C.D.
Denwood, Alta. and Chatham, Ont.
Lieutenant-Colonel David Anthony Patterson, M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston and Wolfe Island, Ont.
Captain Anthony Peter Robb, M.S.M.
Toronto, Ont. and Surrey and White Rock, B.C.
Corporal Jean-Paul Somerset, M.S.M.
Petawawa, Ont. and Middleton, N.S.
Lieutenant-Colonel Barry Marshall Southern, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont. and Calgary, Alta.
Major Matthew Bruce Sprague, M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston and Kenora, Ont.
Major Michael Charles Wright, M.M.V., M.S.M., C.D.
Shilo and Brandon, Manitoba, and Oakville, Ont.
The recipients' citations are attached. For additional information on the Military Valour Decorations, see Annex A, and for the Meritorious Service Decorations, see Annex B.
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Media information: Marie-Paule Thorn Rideau Hall Press Office 613-993-2569
Media Liaison Office Department of National Defence613-996-2353 or 613‑996‑2354
CITATIONS
MILITARY VALOUR DECORATIONS
Sergeant Derek John Scott Fawcett, M.M.V., C.D.Meaford and Ottawa, OntarioMedal of Military Valour
On September 3, 2006, while serving with Charles Company, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, in Afghanistan, Sergeant Fawcett demonstrated great valour during an intense firefight in which one Canadian soldier was killed and others were wounded. Continuously exposed to intense enemy fire, Sergeant Fawcett repeatedly crossed open terrain to lead the evacuation of casualties back to the designated collection point. Realizing that much of the Company's senior leaders had been wounded, he took charge of a subsequent mass casualty evacuation. His actions and professionalism in combat saved the lives of his fellow soldiers and inspired those around him.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS
Lieutenant-Colonel Simon Charles Hetherington, M.S.C., C.D.Ottawa, Petawawa and Oakville, OntarioMeritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Hetherington was deployed as commanding officer of the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team (KPRT), Joint Task Force Afghanistan, from June 2006 to January 2007. His exceptional leadership of the entire government team, as well as his tactical acumen, generated outstanding results in development, reconstruction and governance operations. His dynamic character and expert knowledge earned unstinting respect from Afghan and Coalition leaders and projected a strong, positive image of Canada's role in Afghanistan. Lieutenant-Colonel Hetherington's achievements during his assignment with the KPRT provided an extraordinary contribution to the International Security Assistance Force mission and played a vital role in helping the Afghan people rebuild their nation.
Lieutenant-Colonel Jean-Marc Lanthier, M.S.C., C.D.Ottawa, Ontario and Gatineau, QuebecMeritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Lanthier assumed command of the first Canadian operational mentor liaison team from August 2006 to March 2007. During that time, he demonstrated an exceptional professionalism. He and his teammates delivered work of such high quality that they became a model for similar NATO units. Under his command, the unit greatly contributed to the success of the development of the Afghan National Army, as evidenced by the impressive achievements of the battalion with which he was associated. Lieutenant-Colonel Lanthier's remarkable leadership and organizational skills have brought tremendous honour to Canada's mission in Afghanistan.
Brigadier-General Donald Joseph Quenneville, M.S.C.Plymouth, Maine, United States of AmericaMeritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
As deputy commander of the Canadian North American Aerospace Defence Command Region from August 2004 to June 2007, Brigadier General Quenneville of the United States Air Force provided outstanding assistance to Canada. His vision and expert knowledge contributed significantly to the advancement of defence programs critical to Canada. His leadership and initiative were the driving force behind the creation of the first Space Operations cell within the Canadian Forces and the establishment of the first National Air Planning Process. Brigadier - General Quenneville's dedication and efforts have contributed to continental security and constitute unique and unparalleled service to Canada.
Master Warrant Officer John Gerard Barnes, M.S.M., C.D.Petawawa and Pembroke, Ontario, and St. John's, Newfoundland and LabradorMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Barnes was deployed as company sergeant major of Charles Company, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group,in Afghanistan from August 2006 to February 2007. His exceptional leadership and composure under enemy fire directly contributed to his company's success under the extreme adversity of intense combat operations and significant casualties. Severely injured during Operation MEDUSA, he insisted on returning to the frontlines. Master Warrant Officer Barnes' unwavering sense of duty was instrumental to his Company's cohesion and effectiveness during the mission.
Chief Warrant Officer Stephen Stanley Bartlett, M.S.M., C.D.Oromocto, Nasonworth and St. Stephen, New Brunswick Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Chief Warrant Officer Bartlett demonstrated outstanding professionalism while serving as the regimental sergeant major of Task Force Afghanistan Rotation 0 from August 2005 to March 2006. His excellent soldier skills, sound advice to his commander and impressive ability to address the soldiers' needs were instrumental to the Task Force's success throughout the main tactical effort in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Chief Warrant Officer Bartlett's service was of the highest calibre, directly contributing to the successful accomplishment of this mission and to the exceptional reputation of the Canadian Forces.
Major J.M. François Bisaillon, M.S.M., C.D.Kingston, Ontario and Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QuebecMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Bisaillon demonstrated exemplary initiative and expertise as deputy commanding officer of the first Canadian operational mentor liaison team in Afghanistan from August 2006 to February 2007. With recent experience as a light infantry commander, he led an experienced team that helped the Afghan National Army become fit for combat. His tactical insight and exceptional leadership skills helped them form a cohesive unit with the Afghan soldiers, which was then able to fight in a number of battles. Major Bisaillon's influence on the development of the Afghan National Army has greatly contributed to the International Security Assistance Force mission.
Lieutenant-Colonel Shane Anthony Brennan, M.S.M., C.D.Ottawa, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Brennan commanded Joint Task Force Lebanon, the military assistance mission for the facilitated departure of some 15 000 Canadians from Lebanon during the conflict of July 2006. This mission represented the largest international evacuation of Canadians from conflict in Canadian history. Moulding a disparate group of individuals and sub-units into one cohesive and effective team, Lieutenant-Colonel Brennan quickly brought order to a monumental task. His exceptional ability to balance urgency and compassion with due diligence for safety and security resulted in the successful evacuation of Canadians from active conflict regions, such as Tyre and Sidon.
Chief Warrant Officer Joseph Claude Caron, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.Toronto and Courtice, Ontario, and Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, QuebecMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Chief Warrant Officer Caron's performance, while serving in Allied Joint Force Command Naples from 2003 to 2007, brought great honour to the Canadian Forces and significantly enhanced Canada's reputation amongst our Allies. Whether he was assisting the community, supporting colleagues or briefing senior officers, Chief Warrant Officer Caron, then Master Warrant Officer, engaged in every assignment with the highest level of professionalism and dedication. In addition to his regular duties, he voluntarily served in Iraq, was the chief instructor for the Mobile Training Team and was the senior Canadian advisor for non-commissioned members. Chief Warrant Officer Caron's work with the Joint Force Command Naples has had a positive and lasting impact.
Lieutenant-Colonel John David Conrad, M.S.M., C.D.Toronto, Orono and Listowel, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Conrad served as the commanding officer of the National Support Element in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from February 8 to August 15, 2006. His tireless work ensured effective and flexible combat service support to all elements of the Canadian contingent and to numerous multinational partners throughout intense combat operations. Leading by example and sharing the risks of ambushes and improvised explosive device attacks, Lieutenant-Colonel Conrad frequently accompanied soldiers on combat logistic patrol and missions to evacuate the wounded. His exceptional leadership, professionalism and dedication were the driving force behind the great success of the National Support Element and of Task Force Afghanistan.
Major Mark Anthony Gasparotto, M.S.M.Oromocto and Fredericton, New Brunswick and London, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Gasparotto was deployed as officer commanding 23 Field Squadron, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, in Afghanistan from August 1, 2006, to February 15, 2007. With force protection as his priority, he effectively transformed forward operating bases and battle positions into highly defendable locations that enabled effective enemy engagement. Under continuous contact with the enemy, he led his Squadron through the construction of route Summit, a critical enabler for battle group operations. Major Gasparotto's innovative thinking, dedicated efforts and exceptional leadership under enemy fire made a strategic impact on the battlefield of Afghanistan that enhanced battle group operations and saved the lives of Canadian soldiers.
Commander Darren Carl Hawco, M.S.M., C.D.Ottawa, Ontario and Pierrefonds, QuebecMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Commander Hawco, Commanding Officer of HMCS OTTAWA, was deployed as part of Task Force Arabian Sea from September 10, 2006, to March 17, 2007. His sound judgement and leadership set the tone for the entire ship's company during this intense period of operations. His exceptional professionalism resulted in his repeated selection as flagship and as pulse group commander responsible for the employment of other coalition ships in security and intelligence operations on the Red Sea. Commander Hawco's operational focus set the stage for coalition success in the Persian Gulf.
Master Corporal Lance Thomas Hooper, M.S.M., C.D.Petawawa, Beachburg and Lindsay, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
From August 1, 2006, to February 15, 2007, Master Corporal Hooper, a combat engineer with 23 Field Squadron, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group,, in Afghanistan, demonstrated exceptional dedication to duty. During three separate incidents, either enemy fire or explosive devices destroyed the engineering vehicle he was operating. On two of these occasions he was wounded and required medical evacuation. In spite of being hit, he eagerly returned to duty each time. Master Corporal Hooper's remarkable dedication and professionalism in combat set an inspiring example for all ranks of the Battle Group.
Major Gregory Wayne Ivey, M.S.M., C.D.Petawawa, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Ivey was deployed as commanding officer of E-Battery, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, in Afghanistan from August 1, 2006, to March 1, 2007. Operating under the most demanding combat conditions, Major Ivey quickly established himself as an integral member of the forward mobile tactical command team. His exceptional ability to assimilate intelligence information allowed him to effectively plan and coordinate artillery, close air support, attack aviation and unmanned aerial surveillance in support of Canadian and coalition combat operations. Major Ivey's tactical acumen and effectiveness enabled the Battle Group to engage and defeat the enemy.
Lieutenant-Colonel Colin Roy Keiver, M.S.M., C.D.Winnipeg, Manitoba and Three Hills, AlbertaMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Keiver, then Major, was the air operations advisor for Task Force Addis Ababa, in Khartoum, Sudan, from November 28, 2005, to May 25, 2006. Undaunted by cultural differences and organizational challenges, he instituted and maintained rigorous air safety standards and operating procedures. His steadfastness, tenacity and organizational skills helped to avoid critical logistical issues within the Task Force without compromising safety or operational standards. Lieutenant-Colonel Kiever's tireless efforts were instrumental in improving and maintaining the only viable means of allied transport in Sudan and directly contributed to the success of the mission.
Colonel Frederick A. Lewis, M.S.M., C.D.Kingston, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
From March 2006 to February 2007, Colonel Lewis served as the deputy commander of Joint Task Force Afghanistan. He led and shaped the development of a cohesive, confident and well-prepared task force that excelled at both intense close combat and humanitarian efforts. With vision and insight of a rare high standard, he transformed the construct of national command, setting the conditions for the coherent delivery of Canadian efforts across Kandahar province. His exceptional leadership and complete dedication to the success of the overall mission of Joint Task Force Afghanistan reflects the highest standards of professionalism in the Canadian Forces.
Major Andrew John Lussier, M.S.M., C.D.Denison, Alberta, Petawawa, Ontario and Montréal, QuebecMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Lussier was deployed to Afghanistan with The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group as commanding officer of the Intelligence Surveillance Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) Squadron from August 1, 2006, to February 15, 2007. His tactical acumen and expert planning skills enabled him to implement and validate the incorporation of non-traditional forces into the ISTAR squadron. He single-handedly transformed the unit into an effective and cohesive manoeuvre force that successfully projected additional combat power into intense and sustained combat operations. As the Army's most combat-experienced Reconnaissance Squadron commander, Major Lussier proved to be a dynamic and effective leader whose flexibility and vision resulted in dozens of coalition victories.
Captain Steven Kelly MacBeth, M.S.M., C.D.Wainwright, Alberta and Whitby, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Captain MacBeth was deployed as a member of the Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance Squadron, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group,, in Afghanistan from August 2006 to February 2007. He expertly planned and executed highly effective combat reconnaissance patrols, and on numerous occasions, he selflessly led his platoon through enemy territory to assist other units that had come under attack. Captain MacBeth's exceptional tactical acumen and combat leadership enabled the successful execution of numerous high-risk reconnaissance patrols that resulted in the discovery of information of significant value to the battle group.
Master Warrant Officer Bradley William John Montgomery, M.S.M., C.D.Denwood, Alberta and Chatham, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Montgomery was deployed as the Sergeant Major of 23 Field Squadron, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, in Afghanistan from August 1, 2006, to February 15, 2007. His professionalism, leadership and experience were critical to the development of roads and forward operating bases during intense combat situations. The selfless commitment he demonstrated to his fellow troops was an inspiration. During four separate incidents, he readily placed himself in harm's way to aid soldiers who had been targeted by enemy attacks. Respected by many, Master Warrant Officer Montgomery is the embodiment of a soldier: professional, selfless, loyal, relentless and dedicated.
Lieutenant-Colonel David Anthony Patterson, M.S.M., C.D.Kingston and Wolfe Island, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Patterson was deployed to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2006, as the strategic plans advisor to the Darfur Integrated Task Force. During a period of volatile activity and uncertainty, he was instrumental in creating a multi-national transition planning team charged with the creation of contingency plans for the African Union Forces. His expertise, his oversight and his vision were key to enabling the creation of the United Nations' phased support packages, which have since formed the cornerstone for all transition planning within the Integrated Task Force. Lieutenant-Colonel Patterson's outstanding leadership and dedication brought great honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.
Captain Anthony Peter Robb, M.S.M.Toronto, Ontario and Surrey and White Rock, British ColumbiaMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Captain Robb, then Lieutenant, was deployed as a troop commander with 23 Field Squadron, 1stBattalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, in Afghanistan, during Operation ATHENA, from August 1, 2006, to February 15, 2007. He courageously led his troop of field engineers through extremely challenging conditions to develop forward operating bases and transportation routes in support of the advancing battle group. He remained calm and focused under enemy fire, providing encouragement and inspiration for his troops. Captain Robb's professionalism and exceptional dedication greatly contributed to the success of operations in the Pashmul region.
Corporal Jean-Paul Somerset, M.S.M.Petawawa, Ontario and Middleton, Nova ScotiaMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Corporal Somerset, then Master-Corporal, served as a medic with the 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, during the intense battles of Operation MEDUSA in Afghanistan. On September 3, 2006, he worked selflessly, ignoring personal danger, to provide life-saving medical care to his wounded comrades. During an attack against the Company's position the following day, he was one of 30 casualties. Despite his wounds, he provided first aid to the remainder of the casualties. Corporal Somerset has distinguished himself as a dedicated medic and member of the Canadian Forces whose courage and devotion under fire saved the lives of many soldiers.
Lieutenant-Colonel Barry Marshall Southern, M.S.M., C.D.Ottawa, Ontario and Calgary, AlbertaMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Southern served as the first commander of Task Force Jerusalem from May 16, 2005 to August 11, 2006. His confidence, knowledge, and exceptional ability to translate strategic intent into operational effects were essential to advising the United States Security Coordinator (USSC) and senior Palestinian authorities on security sector reform. He managed complex and sensitive Middle East Peace Process issues with senior Palestinians, the Egyptian envoy for security sector concerns, and members of the international community on behalf of the USSC. Lieutenant-Colonel Southern's success in quickly establishing a functioning and extremely effective advisory team has reinforced Canada's credibility within the international community.
Major Matthew Bruce Sprague, M.S.M., C.D.Kingston and Kenora, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Sprague was deployed as officer commanding Charles Company, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, in Afghanistan from August 1, 2006, to February 15, 2007. His outstanding leadership from the front and his courageous and calm demeanour were instrumental in keeping his company effective and mission-focused throughout numerous hard-fought battles with the enemy. Severely wounded early in his tour and repatriated to Canada, Major Sprague insisted on returning to lead Charles Company and continued as their leader until the completion of the rotation. His devotion to duty and expertise in combat operations has left a lasting legacy in Kandahar Province.
Major Michael Charles Wright, M.M.V., M.S.M., C.D.Shilo and Brandon, Manitoba, and Oakville, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Wright was deployed as officer commanding Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, in Afghanistan from August 2006 to February 2007. He responded to the leadership challenge of being in constant contact with the enemy, and successfully planned and executed many company and combat team-level operations. Extremely adaptable, he effortlessly changed his warrior role to that of a humanitarian when working with senior Afghan politicians and the Afghan National Army. Major Wright's professionalism and devotion to duty has significantly contributed to the success of the mission and has left a lasting legacy in Kandahar province.
Annex A - MILITARY VALOUR DECORATIONSThe three Military Valour Decorations, namely the Victoria Cross, the Star of Military Valour and the Medal of Military Valour, were created by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, on January 1, 1993. The Decorations may be awarded posthumously.
The Victoria Cross is awarded for the most conspicuous bravery, a daring or pre‑eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty, in the presence of the enemy.
The Star of Military Valour is awarded for distinguished and valiant service in the presence of the enemy.
The Medal of Military Valour is awarded for an act of valour or devotion to duty in the presence of the enemy.
Anyone can propose a nomination for the Military Valour Decorations. If a member of our Canadian Forces meets the criteria, a submission will be made through the member's chain of command for consideration by the Military Valour Decorations Advisory Committee, and the Governor General. For all three Military Valour Decorations, recipients must be a member of the Canadian Forces or a member of an allied armed force that is serving with, or in conjunction with, the Canadian Forces, on or after January 1, 1993.
Annex B MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS
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.
The Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division) recognizes a military deed or activity that has been performed in an outstandingly professional manner, according to a rare high standard that brings considerable benefit or great honour to the Canadian Forces.
The Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division) recognizes a military deed or activity performed in a highly professional manner, according to a very high standard that brings benefit or honour to the Canadian Forces.
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.
