Presentation of the Commander-in-Chief’s Unit Commendation
Edmonton, Alberta, Monday, November 29, 2010
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Good afternoon.
I am very proud to stand here today as your commander-in-chief. And I am especially delighted to be able to present the Commander-in-Chief’s Unit Commendation to the 1st Battalion of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group.
Not too long ago, I had the honour of presenting the Vimy Award to the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, who is the colonel-in-chief of the Patricia’s. I want to share some of her words with you, because they echo my own beliefs.
She said: “My commitment [to the Canadian Forces] is not onerous; my commitment is a privilege as a Canadian; my commitment is a tribute to being a human being.”
When I was called upon to serve Canada, I did so with the humbleness of knowing that I would become commander-in-chief of the Canadian Forces, that I would have the privilege of visiting you, listening to you and honouring you.
Just as my dedication to the Forces reflects Madame Clarkson’s, so too do your actions reflect the importance you place on serving your country.
Time and again, the Patricia’s has demonstrated a commitment to service. You have defended Canada’s ideals through sacrifice. You have represented Canada abroad with respect and composure.
It is your dedication to service and to country that we celebrate here today.
The Commander-in-Chief’s Unit Commendation is a fairly modern award. Created in 2000, it has been awarded sparingly over the past 10 years. The commendation is presented to a unit of the Canadian Forces that has performed an extraordinary deed or activity of a rare high standard in extremely hazardous circumstances.
When I read the citation for this commendation, your accomplishments amazed me. From January to August 2006, you were involved in 29 different operations in Afghanistan, fighting almost constantly.
I want to repeat that because your tenacity absolutely astounds me—29 major operations in just eight months.
The insurgent forces you were up against were organized and well-equipped, but I dare say that no force can ever be properly prepared when facing the men and women of the Canadian Forces, specifically those in the 1st Battalion of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.
I made my first visit to Afghanistan earlier this month and I can say with certainty that we are making a difference there. I saw first-hand how the troops are helping with security, with the reconstruction efforts, and with the training of Afghan forces.
Your actions in Afghanistan have helped the Afghan people foster their country’s fledgling democracy. You have given them the confidence that you exude to fight for what they believe in.
As our combat role draws to a close, and as we finalize Canada’s involvement in the future of Afghanistan, I know that the legacy we leave will help create a more fair and just society.
I am not only proud—but also feel compelled—to recognize the bravery of the men and women who risk their lives for our principles.
During her Vimy Award acceptance speech, Madame Clarkson also said: “We must respect the people who have chosen this as a way of life. We ask them to meet challenges, danger and death for us. We must support them, not by facile sentimentality but by informed understanding of what it is they do because we as a nation have asked them to do it.”
This commendation recognizes a significant campaign, but it is my hope that it will also serve as a reminder to Canadians of all that you do for our nation. You willingly sacrifice so much for us, and the entire country should stand up and take notice. You are our heroes and our role models; know that you are not alone, no matter where you are in the world.
On behalf of all Canadians, I thank you for your devotion to duty, for your enduring service and for your professionalism in the field. I am now honoured to present the Commander-in-Chief’s Unit Commendation to the 1st Battalion of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group. Congratulations.
Thank you.
