Warrant Officer Russell Keith Arsenault, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ont. and O'Leary, P.E.I.
Major Orest Babij, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and St. Catharines, Ont.
Chief Warrant Officer Sheila Alaine Blair, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Enfield and Greenwood, N.S.
Colonel Joseph Patrick Breen, M.S.M.
Washington, D.C., U.S.A.
Lieutenant-Colonel James Frederick Camsell, M.S.M., C.D
St. John's, N.L.
Lieutenant-Colonel Frances Chilton-Mackay, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont.
Colonel Christopher John Coates, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston, Ont. and Calgary, Alta.
Brigadier-General jonkheer J. Harmen de Jonge, M.S.M.
Münster, Germany
Master Warrant Officer Kevin Joseph Ralph Donovan, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ont
Master Warrant Officer Richard Dubé, M.S.M., C.D.
Edmonton, Alta. and Brossard, Que.
Master Warrant Officer Luc Emond, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont. and Lévis, Que.
Captain David Fearon, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and Elmvale, Ont.
Master Warrant Officer David Eugene Fisher, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ont. and Stephenville Crossing, N.L.
Colonel Sean G. Friday, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and Stoney Creek, Ont.
Chief Warrant Officer Ernest Joseph Hall, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa and Perth, Ont.
Colonel Charles Mark Hazleton, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston, Ont.
Master Corporal William Thomas Hoggarth, M.S.M., C.D.
Amherstview, Ont. and Portage la Prairie, Man.
Lieutenant-Colonel Kerry William Horlock, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and Simcoe, Ont.
Brigadier-General Alan John Howard, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont.
Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Avard Kaye, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Victoria, B.C. and Moncton, N.B.
Colonel Paul Keddy, M.S.M., C.D.
Bushell Park, Sask. and St. Catharines, Ont.
Captain Peter Paul Kleinschmidt, M.S.M., C.D.
Belleville and Hamilton, Ont.
Corporal Tyler J. Latta, M.S.M.
London, Ont.
Master Warrant Officer Lewis Duthie Joseph Lavoie, M.S.M., C.D
Petawawa and Marathon, Ont.
Major Robert Walter McBride, M.S.M., C.D.
North York and Petawawa, Ont.
Colonel Thomas J. McGrath, M.S.M.
Burke, Virginia and Boston, Mass., U.S.A.
Lieutenant-Colonel Scott Andrew McLeod, M.S.M., C.D.
Greely, Ont. and Regina, Sask.
Master Warrant Officer Shawn Anthony Mercer, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ont.
Major Eric Jean Perey, M.S.M., C.D.
St-Luc and St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que.
Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Paul Jacques Ricard, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont. and Drummondville, Que.
Master Warrant Officer Eric John Rolfe, M.S.M., C.D.
Oromocto, N.B. and New Glasgow, N.S.
Brigadier-General Dennis Charles Tabbernor, C.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Winnipeg, Man.
Major Dean Dwayne Tremblay, M.S.M., C.D.
Bath, Ont. and Halifax, N.S.
Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Arnold White, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Harrowsmith and Collingwood, Ont.
Major Mark G. Wuennenberg, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ont. and Chilliwack, B.C.
Please note that the information in this news release reflects the rank and posting of the members at the time of award.
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 to 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.
Commodore Robert Andrew Davidson, M.S.C., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
From April to September 2008, 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, Commodore Davidson showed great planning abilities and leadership that enabled the task force to seamlessly accomplish a variety of operations across three oceans.
Sergeant Nicholas Samuel James Deriger, M.S.C., C.D.
Petawawa and Ottawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
Sergeant Deriger was deployed to Afghanistan as an explosive ordinance disposal commander, from September 2008 to May 2009. While leading over 50 successful counter-improvised explosive device operations, he personally dismantled nearly every device and ensured the operations were conducted quickly and efficiently. He uncovered critical information on new insurgent tactics that led directly to adjustments in Task Force search techniques. Sergeant Deriger's leadership, courage and selfless work ethic significantly reduced the threat of improvised explosive device attacks in his area of operations.
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.
Major-General Joseph Guy Marc Lessard,
C.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.Ottawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
From February to November 2008, Major-General Lessard was deployed as commander of Regional Command (South). His insight into the complex nature of the battle space, coupled with his exceptional strategic vision and operational foresight, shaped the multinational counter-insurgency campaign in southern Afghanistan, and set the conditions in place for the success of multinational forces. Major-General Lessard's integrity, statesmanship and dedication ensured the coalition's operational success in Afghanistan's most violent and challenging region.
Warrant Officer John Robert McNabb, M.S.C., C.D.
Lancaster Park and Edmonton, Alberta
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
From May to July 2008, Warrant Officer McNabb led Canadian troops partnered with Afghan army forces to defend a remote strong point in the Panjwaii District. During this period of intense combat, his judgment, steadiness under fire and skilled coordination of combat assets instilled confidence in his team of soldiers and their Afghan counterparts. His tactical acumen during prolonged engagements was critical to overcoming the enemy. Warrant Officer McNabb's extraordinary leadership ensured the defence of the strong point and the maintenance of the coalition's freedom of movement throughout the western part of the district.
Sergeant Darrell Lawrence Spence, M.S.C., C.D.
Deep River, Ontario and Springhill, Nova Scotia
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
Sergeant Spence was deployed to Afghanistan as the primary engineering advisor to the officer commanding a reconnaissance squadron, from September 2008 to April 2009. Despite not having access to the full range of engineering equipment, he developed mitigating strategies that enabled him to perform tasks better suited to dedicated engineering units. Sergeant Spence overcame the difficulties associated with operating in a remote region. His selflessness and skills provided immediate protection to ground troops and ensured the successful forensic analysis at the scene of multiple improvised explosive device attacks.
Lieutenant-Colonel Dana Jeffrey Woodworth, M.S.C., C.D.
Edmonton, Alberta
Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Woodworth was deployed to Afghanistan as the commanding officer of the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team, from January 2008 to February 2009. With an expanding civilian presence, he encouraged co-operation and openness that helped forge the unit into a unified military-civilian team. In response to the Sarposa Prison break, he developed a security plan that enabled Afghan National Security Forces to take the lead in defending Kandahar City. Lieutenant-Colonel Woodworth's outstanding leadership advanced Canada's strategic initiatives in Afghanistan.
Warrant Officer Russell Keith Arsenault, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ontario and O'Leary, Prince Edward Island
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Warrant Officer Arsenault was deployed to Afghanistan with the Battle Group from September 2008 to April 2009. Throughout multiple combat operations, his calm demeanour and expert direction enabled his soldiers to persevere in the face of intense enemy actions. As acting commander on several occasions, he seamlessly led his platoon through the successful completion of numerous challenging operations in highly volatile circumstances. Warrant Officer Arsenault fostered a sense of cohesion within his platoon that directly contributed to the company's operational success.
Major Orest Babij, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and St. Catharines, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Babij was deployed to Afghanistan as the commanding officer of the All Source Intelligence Centre, from September 2008 to April 2009. With an in-depth understanding of the insurgency, he led his team in the production of intelligence products that enabled the targeting of insurgent commanders, reduced rocket attacks against Kandahar Airfield and facilitated the removal of several improvised explosive device networks. By providing current information on the constantly changing battle space, Major Babij and his team enabled numerous Canadian and coalition field commanders to conduct immediate and successful operations against enemy forces.
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.
Lieutenant-Colonel James Frederick Camsell, M.S.M., C.D
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Camsell was deployed to Afghanistan as a mentor to the head of logistics of an Afghan National Army (ANA) brigade, from September 2008 to April 2009. His collaborative approach and articulated vision enabled him to introduce initiatives that vastly improved the efficiency of the brigade's re-supply system. These initiatives were eventually adopted across Regional Command (South). Lieutenant-Colonel Camsell's dedication to developing a more responsive and capable sustainment system for the ANA greatly enhanced operational effectiveness.
Lieutenant-Colonel Frances Chilton-Mackay, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Chilton-Mackay has volunteered her time and expertise as the director of Music of the Governor General's Foot Guards Regimental Band. Since 2006, she has been the driving force in providing an unparalleled level of musical support to numerous events at the local, national and international levels. She has worked tirelessly to foster morale and to build the Canadian Forces' esprit de corps through these musical performances. Under her dynamic leadership, she has effectively projected a positive image of the Canadian Forces, both at home and abroad.
Colonel Christopher John Coates, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston, Ontario and Calgary, Alberta
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel Coates was the first commander of the Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing, from November 2008 to April 2009. Under pressure to get the newly formed air wing operational as soon as possible, he overcame numerous logistical challenges to ensure the rapid introduction of critical aviation capabilities to Afghanistan. Colonel Coates' efforts have augmented Canadian operational capability, enhancing the security and mobility of ground forces across the theatre of operations.
Brigadier-General jonkheer J. Harmen de Jonge, M.S.M.
Münster, Germany
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Brigadier-General de Jonge 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. Brigadier-General de Jonge's exceptional leadership and professionalism were key in ensuring the success of the Regional Command (South) operations.
Master Warrant Officer Kevin Joseph Ralph Donovan, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Donovan was deployed to Afghanistan with the Battle Group as Mike Company sergeant-major, from September 2008 to April 2009. Taking charge of the multinational patrol base, he oversaw the construction and modification of defensive facilities that significantly reduced the base's vulnerability to attacks. During combat operations, his tactical acumen and composure under fire motivated and inspired his subordinates and encouraged their pursuit of the enemy. Master Warrant Officer Donovan's unwavering dedication and frontline leadership ensured his company's operational success.
Master Warrant Officer Richard Dubé, M.S.M., C.D.
Edmonton, Alberta and Brossard, Quebec
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Dubé was deployed to Afghanistan from November 2008 to April 2009. He arrived in advance of Canadian Helicopter Force (Afghanistan) to set the conditions for the unit's seamless integration into Afghanistan's multinational aviation community. Called upon to fill the role of officer commanding the Logistics Flight, due to his previous successes, he ensured that Task Force Air Wing units had the necessary logistical support to keep their aircraft flying. Warrant Officer Dubé's initiative and logistical acumen contributed to the introduction and maintenance of capabilities that enhanced the security and mobility of ground troops across Afghanistan.
Master Warrant Officer Luc Emond, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario and Lévis, Quebec
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Emond was deployed as the senior aircraft maintenance superintendent for Canadian Helicopter Force (Afghanistan), from December 2008 to April 2009. He established mutually beneficial relationships that enabled his unit's rapid and seamless integration into Afghanistan's multinational aviation community, ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of critical aviation capabilities. Master Warrant Officer Emond's remarkable focus and dedicated effort to ensure the smooth operation of Canadian and coalition aircraft enhanced the security and mobility of ground troops across the theatre of operations.
Captain David Fearon, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and Elmvale, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Captain Fearon was deployed to Afghanistan from September 2008 to April 2009. He built the Tactical Operations Centre into a highly efficient and cohesive support unit that ensured the proper combat assets and tools were provided to the Battle Group during several major operations. His composure, focus and ability to maintain situational awareness allowed him to simultaneously coordinate responses to multiple combat actions. Captain Fearon's professionalism and tactical acumen were instrumental to the operational success of the Battle Group.
Master Warrant Officer David Eugene Fisher, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ontario and Stephenville Crossing, Newfoundland and Labrador
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Fisher was deployed to Afghanistan as an Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team Company sergeant-major, from September 2008 to April 2009. His steadfast patience, knowledge of counter-insurgency operations and constant presence among Afghan soldiers contributed significantly to the professional development of the Afghan non-commissioned officer corps in Panjwaii District. Master Warrant Officer Fisher's leadership, courage under fire and endless dedication to his soldiers ensured the operational success of Afghan National Army units in the region.
Colonel Sean G. Friday, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa and Stoney Creek, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Friday 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. Lieutenant-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.
Chief Warrant Officer Ernest Joseph Hall, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa and Perth, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Chief Warrant Officer Hall was deployed to Afghanistan as the regimental sergeant-major for 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, from September 2008 to April 2009. His dedicated operational focus provided the Battle Group with a stabilizing influence during multiple combat operations. He provided solid advice to his commanding officer, set an outstanding example for soldiers to follow and actively fostered teamwork within the entire Task Force. Chief Warrant Officer Hall's leadership and professionalism were instrumental to the Battle Group's operational success.
Colonel Charles Mark Hazleton, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston, OntarioMeritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Colonel Hazleton was deployed to Afghanistan as deputy chief of staff operations for Regional Command (South), from January to October 2008. Working diligently in Afghanistan's most demanding and volatile region, he was highly successful at synchronizing multinational planning staffs and ensuring timely management of coalition assets in support of regional objectives. His management of divergent and competing priorities was a testament to his dedication and foresight. Colonel Hazleton's leadership ensured the success of the coalition during countless complex operations, bringing great credit to Canada.
Master Corporal William Thomas Hoggarth, M.S.M., C.D.
Amherstview, Ontario and Portage la Prairie, Manitoba
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Corporal Hoggarth was deployed to a forward operating base in Afghanistan, from September 2008 to April 2009. Responding to feedback from ground troops, he designed and implemented armour packages that increased the survivability of logistics vehicles in combat. He tirelessly maintained anti-mine equipment aboard tanks and modified the vehicles to make them safer under fire. He also built defensive improvements within the base that increased the safety of all personnel. Master Corporal Hoggarth's ability to innovate and his outstanding work ethic greatly contributed to the safety of Canadian troops.
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.
Brigadier-General Alan John Howard, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
From April 2008 to March 2009, Brigadier-General Howard displayed exemplary leadership and innovation in developing aspects of the Afghan National Army (ANA) at the tactical, operational and strategic levels. He routinely visited ANA units in the field, sharing in their risk and gaining their trust and confidence. His personal and professional relationships with senior ANA leaders directly enhanced their professionalism. Brigadier-General Howard's leadership and work ethic greatly contributed to ensuring Afghanistan's defence institutions were robust, operationally focused and strategically prepared.
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 aircraft and aircrew. Working at an outstanding pace, he made every conceivable effort to guarantee the success of these essential projects.
Corporal Tyler J. Latta, M.S.M.
London, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Corporal Latta was deployed to Afghanistan with an operational mentoring and liaison team, from February to September 2008. On numerous occasions, while fighting alongside the Afghan National Army, he exhibited fearless tenacity while providing mentorship on fire control orders, tactical movement and platoon tactics. Corporal Latta's leadership, mission focus and tactical acumen set an outstanding example for junior Afghan leaders, enhancing the capability of Afghan soldiers and saving Canadian and Afghan lives.
Master Warrant Officer Lewis Duthie Joseph Lavoie, M.S.M., C.D
Petawawa and Marathon, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Lavoie was deployed to Afghanistan as the company sergeant-major for Battle Group Headquarters, from September 2008 to April 2009. During an intensive combat tour, he provided advice to Battle Group soldiers, commanders and other Task Force units during the planning and execution of operations. Whether personally tracking casualty evacuations, facilitating ramp ceremonies or visiting hospitals, his compassion for wounded soldiers drew accolades from across the Task Force. Master Warrant Officer Lavoie's outstanding leadership and professionalism contributed to the Battle Group's operational success.
Major Robert Walter McBride, M.S.M., C.D.
North York and Petawawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major McBride was deployed to Afghanistan as the officer commanding a rifle company, from September 2008 to February 2009. He expertly led numerous counter-insurgency operations while simultaneously coordinating security, governance and development in Zhari District. With the entire Task Force focused on his area of operations, he demonstrated an exceptional ability to interpret command intent and gain the co-operation of Afghan leaders, civilian partners and allied forces. Major McBride's outstanding leadership of his company directly contributed to the Task Force's operational success.
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).
Lieutenant-Colonel Scott Andrew McLeod, M.S.M., C.D.
Greely, Ontario and Regina, Saskatchewan
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel McLeod 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. Lieutenant-Colonel McLeod's dedicated efforts enhanced the Canadian Forces' international reputation for quality operational medical care.
Master Warrant Officer Shawn Anthony Mercer, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ontario
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Mercer was deployed to Afghanistan as a reconnaissance squadron sergeant-major, from September 2008 to April 2009. While concurrently managing the responsibility of a forward operating base, his role in the Quick Reaction Force was to ensure immediate responses were provided to improvised explosive detonations and other forms of attack. His experience and leadership not only provided insight into operational planning, but also was an inspiration to soldiers facing the loss of comrades. Master Warrant Officer Mercer's dedication ensured his squadron's operational success.
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.
Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Paul Jacques Ricard, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario and Drummondville, Quebec
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Lieutenant-Colonel Ricard 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.
Master Warrant Officer Eric John Rolfe, M.S.M., C.D.
Oromocto, New Brunswick and New Glasgow, Nova Scotia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Warrant Officer Rolfe was deployed to Afghanistan as the November Company sergeant-major, from September 2008 to April 2009. He provided insight into the combat planning process and ensured tactically sound operations. In the face of horrific improvised explosive device attacks, he effectively managed casualty extraction while simultaneously encouraging his soldiers to persevere. Master Warrant Officer Rolfe's courage and leadership under fire ensured his company's operational success.
Brigadier-General Dennis Charles Tabbernor, C.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Brigadier-General Tabbernor 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 Afghan 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. Brigadier-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.
Major Dean Dwayne Tremblay, M.S.M., C.D.Bath,
Ontario and Halifax, Nova Scotia
Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Major Tremblay was deployed to Afghanistan as the officer commanding a reconnaissance squadron, from September 2008 to February 2009. He expertly led numerous successful operations while simultaneously mentoring an Afghan reconnaissance company and coordinating security, governance and development of infrastructures in Arghandab District. His ability to gain the co-operation of Afghan leaders, civilian partners and allied forces enabled the precise targeting of insurgent networks throughout this dangerous and complex region. Major Tremblay's leadership of his squadron directly contributed to the Task Force's operational 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 their adaptation to military culture and 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.
Annex A - MILITARY VALOUR DECORATIONS
The 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.
