June 20, 2012
Charlottetown, PE – The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, today commended Keith Hillier, Assistant Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada’s Service Delivery Branch, on receiving the Canadian Forces Medallion for Distinguished Service, one of the highest awards a non-military member may receive from the Canadian Forces.
“For almost 18 years, Keith has used his talent and leadership to serve the community of Canadian Forces members and Veterans,” said Minister Blaney. “He is the quintessential example of a leader who is dedicated to improving the quality of life of Veterans. Keith serves as a source of inspiration and I am pleased that the Chief of Defence Staff is bestowing this award upon him. It is a real honour for Keith, and for the Department as a whole.”
The Medallion is awarded to recognize outstanding service performed by persons or organizations outside the active military community. It is awarded for service of a “rare and exceptionally high standard, which accrues great benefit to the Canadian Forces as a whole.”
The citation for the award stated: “Mr. Hillier has been an innovator and a visionary in helping shape Veterans Affairs Canada to meet Veterans’ needs. With unyielding commitment, he has personally taken ownership of issues, helped to facilitate realistic, sustainable solutions, and always placed high priority on the welfare of Veterans and their families. He is a staunch supporter of the Canadian Forces and has been instrumental in aligning policy and programs between the Canadian Forces and Veterans Affairs Canada.”
For more information on programs and services at Veterans Affairs Canada visit veterans.gc.ca.
For more information on the Medallion, visit www.cmp-cpm.forces.gc.ca/dhr-ddhr/chc-tdh/chart-tableau-eng.asp?ref=cfmds External link, Opens in a new window.
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