CITATIONS
MERITORIOUS SERVICE CROSS
Commander Craig Alan Baines, M.S.C., C.D.
Victoria and Comox, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Winnipeg was deployed to the Gulf of Aden from March to June 2009, on Canada's inaugural counter-piracy mission. As commanding officer,
Commander Baines' operational focus enabled the ship to integrate seamlessly into the NATO-led task force and make aggressive use of its many resources to disrupt pirate activity. He worked closely with the media to ensure that extensive coverage of Canadian naval excellence was projected in media outlets worldwide. Commander Baines' outstanding leadership significantly contributed to international counter-piracy efforts.
General Bantz John Craddock , M.S.C.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States of America
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
General Craddock, Supreme Allied Commander Europe from 2006 to 2009, commanded NATO military operations in which members of the Canadian Forces were a major participant. His ongoing efforts to increase Forces personnel and to expand the role of Allied Command Operations were critical to successfully undertaking difficult missions in the interests of the Alliance, its partners, and the wider international community.
Rear-Admiral Robert Andrew Davidson , M.S.C., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
From April to September 2008, then-Commodore Davidson's outstanding command of Task Force Arabian Sea demonstrated Canada's ability to rapidly project naval power with its allies. Whether leading coalition ships in the war on terror, escorting merchant vessels through pirate-infested waters or conducting life-saving search and rescue operations, Rear-Admiral Davidson showed great planning abilities and leadership that enabled the task force to seamlessly accomplish a variety of operations across three oceans.
Sergeant Shawn E. Harrison , M.S.C., C.D.
Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador
Warrant Officer Bryan Keith Pierce , C.V., M.S.C., C.D.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
On January 3, 2007, parachute rescue team leader Warrant Officer Pierce and team member Sergeant Harrison performed a perilous procedure in a parachute jump to help a critically injured aircraft passenger, at Blatchford Lake, in the Northwest Territories. In the face of severe weather conditions, both performed a low-altitude jump, where the slightest error could have had catastrophic results for the team. The extraordinary level of professionalism demonstrated by Warrant Officer Pierce and Sergeant Harrison under these difficult circumstances brings great honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.
General Victor Eugene Renuart , Jr., M.S.C.
Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Miami, Florida, United States of America
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
From 2006 until 2009, General Victor Renuart, Commander of North American Aerospace Defence Command and United States Northern Command, displayed the highest level of professionalism, leadership and dedication. In his quest to improve the security of our nations, his outstanding determination, infectious esprit de corps and notable integrity ultimately resulted in unprecedented improvements in North American defence and security, and brought great benefit to Canada and to the Canadian Forces.
MERITORIOUS SERVICE MEDAL
Chief Warrant Officer Sheila Alaine Blair , M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Enfield and Greenwood, Nova Scotia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Chief Warrant Officer Blair was deployed with Joint Task Force Afghanistan as the Theatre Support Element chief warrant officer, from June to December 2008. Her diplomacy and tact contributed to the establishment of a network of co-operation that was a key enabler to Task Force operations and that, in turn, helped resolve complex and sensitive multinational issues. Chief Warrant Officer Blair's ability to motivate and turn command intent into action across the full spectrum of camp responsibilities ensured the cohesion of the unit and the success of its operations.
Colonel Joseph Patrick Breen , M.S.M.
Washington, D.C., United States of America
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel Breen has consistently exhibited a high level of professionalism and initiative in his duties as United States Defence and Air Attaché to Canada. He was instrumental in providing key assistance to Canada's Air Force as it introduced the CC177 Globemaster and as it planned to acquire a CC130J Hercules fleet. While his outstanding leadership significantly contributed to Canadian operations, his personal engagement with the military community also enhanced the exchange experience of American personnel living in Canada.
Colonel Gordon David Corbould , M.S.M., C.D.
Belleville, Ontario and Bella Coola, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel Corbould, then-lieutenant-colonel, was deployed to Afghanistan as commanding officer of the Battle Group, from February to September 2008. His exceptional leadership enabled the entire task force to maintain an offensive spirit throughout an intense summer fighting season. His combat acumen, adaptability and visionary planning contributed to the achievement of key tactical victories and stronger interpersonal bonds between coalition forces and local Afghans. Colonel Corbould's courage and calm ensured the Battle Group's operational success, furthering NATO objectives in Afghanistan.
Major-General Jonkheer J. Harmen de Jonge , M.S.M.
Münster, Germany
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major-General de Jonge, then-brigadier-general, of the Royal Netherlands Army, was deployed to Afghanistan as the deputy commander of Regional Command (South), from January to October 2008. His strategic vision and expert skills in diplomacy greatly contributed to mutual respect and synergy between coalition partners, Afghan security forces and the Afghan government. His insightful execution of command intent and his advice to multinational staff ensured effective command and control during regional operations. Major-General de Jonge's exceptional leadership and professionnalism were key in ensuring the success of the Regional Command (South) operations.
Colonel Sean G. Friday , M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and Stoney Creek, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel Friday, then-lieutenant-colonel, was deployed to Southwest Asia with Joint Task Force Afghanistan as the commanding officer of the Theatre Support Element, from June to December 2008. Overseeing hundreds of air transport missions, he introduced new capabilities and techniques that improved the effectiveness of logistical support to operations. Colonel Friday's outstanding skills in diplomacy and planning, as well as his exceptional leadership, ensured the smooth operation of the camp, enhanced relations with the host nation, and ensured that critical lifelines were maintained.
Lieutenant-Colonel Kerry William Horlock , M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and Simcoe, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Horlock was deployed to Afghanistan as the commanding officer of the National Support Element from February to September 2008. His meticulous planning ensured the sustainment of a vast network of critical infrastructure, and the Element's flexibility to support short-notice operations, all while overcoming the increasing threat of improvised explosive devices. Lieutenant-Colonel Horlock's exceptional focus on his mission provided the task force with the logistical support needed to maintain the offensive throughout an intense campaign.
Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Avard Kaye , M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Victoria, British Columbia, and Moncton, New Brunswick
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Chief Warrant Officer Kaye was deployed to Afghanistan as the regimental sergeant-major for the Health Service Support Unit, from January to September 2008. He balanced the emotional needs of his staff with the requirements of operations, ensuring the best possible care for soldiers stationed throughout Afghanistan. He also developed pocket guides that provided critical guidance for combat casualty care, and which are now used in military medical units across Canada.
Colonel Paul Keddy , M.S.M., C.D.
Bushell Park, Saskatchewan, and St. Catharines, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel Keddy was deployed to Operation CALUMET with the Multinational Force and Observers as chief of the Liaison Branch and commander of the Canadian Contingent Task Force El Gorah, from June 2007 to July 2008. His outstanding leadership and tactful interactions with Egyptian and Israeli representatives ensured their co-operation in the resolution of issues related to the enforcement of the 1979 Egypt–Israel Peace Treaty. Colonel Keddy's dedicated efforts ensured the maintenance of trusting relationships between the authorities of the two countries.
Captain Peter Paul Kleinschmidt , M.S.M., C.D.
Belleville and Hamilton, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
From November 2008 to February 2009, Captain Kleinschmidt provided exceptional service in support of Canadian Forces operations. He led and designed multiple high-priority structural projects for the CH146 fleet in preparation for operations in Afghanistan. Faced with extremely short timelines, he overcame many new systems integration challenges that were vital to the safety and survivability of both aircrew and aircraft. Working at an outstanding pace, he made every conceivable effort to guarantee the success of these essential projects.
Colonel Thomas J. McGrath , M.S.M.
Burke, Virginia, and Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel McGrath, of the United States Army, was deployed as the commander of the Afghan Regional Security Integration Command (South), from August 2007 to August 2008. His mentorship of Afghan National Police forces greatly improved their effectiveness, professionalism and, consequently, their reputation among local citizens. His resourcefulness and dedication enhanced the capability of Afghan National Security Forces, ensuring their integration into the operational planning of Regional Command (South).
Colonel Scott Andrew McLeod , M.S.M., C.D.
Greely, Ontario, and Regina, Saskatchewan
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel McLeod, then-lieutenant-colonel, was deployed to Afghanistan as the task force surgeon and commanding officer of the Multinational Role 3 Hospital, from February to September 2008. Through his outstanding leadership, compassion and mission-driven focus, he effectively balanced casualty care requirements with the emotional needs of his personnel. His anticipation of operational requirements ensured plans were in place to manage the expected influx of casualties associated with combat operations. Colonel McLeod's dedicated efforts enhanced the Canadian Forces' international reputation for quality operational medical care.
Major-General Christopher D. Miller , M.S.M.
Washington, D.C., and Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States of America
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
From 2007 to 2009, Major-General Miller, of Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, distinguished himself by developing enduring staff relationships and identifying operational improvements within the North American Aerospace Defence Command, the United States Northern Command and Canada Command. His outstanding leadership and integrity ensured effective intergovernmental and military co-operation, ultimately strengthening the defence and security of Canada and the United States.
Commandant Yves Minjollet , M.S.M.
Paris, France
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Commandant Minjollet has made a remarkable contribution to fostering a closer collaboration between Canada and France in the field of honours. Between 2003 and 2008, his expertise in military and civilian honours and recognition greatly influenced and contributed to the development of a Canadian military recognition policy. The professionalism, initiative and leadership demonstrated by Commandant Minjollet with regards to honours have contributed to a strong working relationship between Canada and France, and are worthy of the highest praise.
Vice Admiral Robert B. Murrett, M.S.M.
Bethesda, Maryland, and Buffalo, New York, United States of America
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Since 2006, Vice Admiral Murrett has been the director of the United States National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, and functional manager for geospatial intelligence. His outstanding leadership and vision have been instrumental in improving access to and the sharing of geospatial intelligence, which has had a profound impact on safety and security both in Canada and in the United States. His continued advocacy towards a synergistic approach to interoperability among Allied nations has greatly contributed to the success of many Canadian Forces missions, both domestically and internationally.
Colonel Philip M. L. Napier , M.S.M.
Salisbury and London, United Kingdom
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel Napier, of the British Army, was deployed to Afghanistan as chief of staff for the Afghan Regional Security Integration Command (South) Headquarters, from January to October 2008. His competence in synchronizing the efforts of multinational headquarters staff ensured the development of a comprehensive regional action plan that enabled subordinate task forces to develop their own plans of action within the framework of a sustainable regional peace perspective. Colonel Napier's firm management of resources and outstanding leadership made possible unprecedented operational momentum and enhanced operations in southern Afghanistan.
Major Eric Jean Perey , M.S.M., C.D.
St-Luc and St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Perey was deployed to Afghanistan as the deputy commanding officer of the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team, from August 2007 to September 2008. He was instrumental in maintaining continuity between different rotations and expanding the unit's civilian component. His team building approach and strong commitment to unity of effort allowed increased focus on Canada's governance and development objectives. Major Perey's leadership and unwavering dedication enhanced Canadian-Afghan relations and directly contributed to the success of development projects in the Kandahar province.
Colonel Joseph Paul Jacques Ricard , M.S.M.
Ottawa, Ontario, and Drummondville, Quebec
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel Ricard, then-lieutenant-colonel, is commended for the outstanding levels of competence, dedication and leadership he displayed while deployed as the surgeon for Task Force Afghanistan, from February to November 2006. He was responsible for establishing all medical support to operations, including a Patient Evacuation Coordination Centre that, amongst other accomplishments, efficiently evacuated the wounded soldiers following two mass casualty events during combat operations. The exceptional manner in which he conducted himself, both in ensuring highly effective life-saving support to operations and in providing treatment to Afghan citizens, brought honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.
Major-General Dennis Charles Tabbernor , C.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major-General Tabbernor, then-brigadier-general, was deployed as the deputy commanding general responsible for the development of the Afghan National Army (ANA), from June 2007 to June 2008. His mentorship of senior Afghans officers and his willingness to share the risk with ANA soldiers opened lines of communication and established relationships that fostered the continued development and professionalism of the ANA. Major-General Tabbernor's dedication and commitment to responding to the needs of Afghans ensured the delivery of programs and initiatives that have positioned this essential national institution for success.
Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Arnold White , M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Harrowsmith and Collingwood, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Chief Warrant Officer White was deployed to Afghanistan as the Joint Task Force Afghanistan Regimental Sergeant-Major, from May 2008 to February 2009. His interactions with task force members reinforced rigorous force protection standards, ensuring command intent was fully understood. With an expanding civilian mandate, he was instrumental in the adaptation of civilians to military culture and to the high-threat environment. Chief Warrant Officer White's outstanding command team presence across two rotations ensured the operational success of the Task Force in a complex, multinational environment.
Major Mark G. Wuennenberg, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario, and Chilliwack, British Columbia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
From October 2004 to July 2009, Major Wuennenberg made an outstanding contribution to the acquisition, development and employment of unmanned aerial vehicles within the Canadian Forces. He is recognized as the Canadian Forces expert in the field, providing crucial force employment, force generation and operational airworthiness input for all activities of this fleet. As an expert representing Canada at NATO working groups and at international conferences, Major Wuennenberg has brought great honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
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.
