Please note that the information below reflects the rank of the recipients at the time of their award.
Recipients of the Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)
Major Maxime Joseph Jean-Pierre Bossé, M.S.C., C.D.
As joint engineer at Task Force Latvia Headquarters since July 2022, Major Bossé demonstrated unparalleled leadership in implementing infrastructures for the enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group and in planning the infrastructure needs for the future brigade. His ability to navigate delicate issues in an extremely challenging environment enabled the acquisition of critical real property assets for the brigade’s growth. Major Bossé’s remarkable efforts greatly enhanced Canada’s reputation as a framework nation in Latvia.
Brigadier-General Kirk Allister Gallinger, M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.
As Director General Military Careers from April 2021 to July 2024, Brigadier-General Gallinger led the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Human Capital Enterprise through a significant modernization. He developed and implemented an evidence-based General Officer/Flag Officer selection screening process to examine the character and competencies of senior leaders prior to promotion and selection for senior appointments. Brigadier-General Gallinger was instrumental in leading the CAF Inclusive Leadership Behaviors model, ensuring that senior leaders are judiciously chosen to lead the cultural evolution of the CAF.
Commander Andrew Douglas Graham, M.S.C., C.D.
While deployed to the Baltic, Irish, Norwegian and North seas as commanding officer of HMCS Fredericton from July to December 2021, Commander Graham demonstrated extraordinary tactical expertise. He brought the ship back to safety following a major fire in its main engine room, off the coast of Norway. Moreover, as flagship captain to the Commander Standing NATO Maritime Group 1, he expertly led the multinational task group during several exercises and operations. Commander Graham was an outstanding ambassador for NATO and Canada.
Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Patrick Michael Mackey, M.S.C., C.D.
While deployed to the Baltic region as coxswain onboard HMCS Fredericton from July to December 2021, Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Mackey distinguished himself as a mentor and leader. This was acutely apparent on November 18, 2021, when the ship experienced a major fire in the forward engine room that caused a prolonged loss of propulsion in extremely hazardous weather conditions. CPO1 Mackey’s exceptional professionalism directly enabled the crew of Fredericton to successfully complete its mission and brought credit to Canada.
Petty Officer 1st class Ashley Allan McCulley, M.S.C., C.D.
As the department chief of Theater Undersea Surveillance Command Pacific, from July 2019 to August 2023 which included a period of seven months as acting department head for N4 Maintenance and Facilities Petty Officer 1st Class McCulley demonstrated exceptional leadership far surpassing the expectations of his rank. His skills underscored to our United States Navy partners Canadian technicians’ critical contributions to mission success. His extraordinary performance and technical expertise brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and strengthened relations with our closest ally.
Major-General Jacques Paul Robert Prévost, O.M.M., M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.
From 2021 to 2024, as director of staff of the Strategic Joint Staff, Major-General Prévost demonstrated exceptional collaboration, dedication and leadership, playing a key role in aligning efforts between numerous entities within the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Under his leadership, whole-of-government coordination reached new heights in a turbulent strategic environment and period, ensuring that priority initiatives were carried out with increased efficiency and remarkable precision. Major-General Prévost strengthened CAF credibility, earning the trust of our allies and fostering a healthy, high‑performance work environment.
Colonel Bernadette Maureen Wellwood, O.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.
While deployed to Goma from July 2021 to July 2022, Colonel Wellwood served as the operations chief of staff for the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and as the commander of Task Force DRC. Operating in a complex conflict zone, she brilliantly navigated the challenges of combat and support activity coordination, amid the presence of 126 rebel groups, 55 000 Congolese Armed Forces personnel, and foreign brigades outside the UN mandate. Colonel Wellwood’s extraordinary leadership brought great honour to Canada.
Recipient of the Medal of Bravery
Petty Officer 2nd Class Jacob Daniel Hawkins, M.B., C.D.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Frederick Matthew Pickett, M.B., C.D.
On November 18, 2021, petty officers Jacob Hawkins and Fred Pickett responded to a severe fire in the forward engine room of the HMCS Fredericton. Petty Officer Hawkins initially led attack teams into the smoke-filled space, while Petty Officer Pickett took over as on-scene coordinator for subsequent firefighting efforts. Four hours later, with the ship and crew drifting perilously towards shore, the fire was finally extinguished.
Petty Officer 2nd Class Jacob Daniel Hawkins will receive his insignia at a later date.
Recipients of a 2nd award of the Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Brigadier-General Paul Joseph Doyle, M.S.M., C.D.
While deployed to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, from June to December 2023, Brigadier-General Doyle performed in an exceptional manner as the Combined Air Operations Center director. Responsible for leading one of the most active Air Operations theaters in the world, he expertly managed relations with eighteen participating coalition partners, eleven NATO nations and other regional actors. Brigadier-General Doyle’s distinctive accomplishments in a highly visible coalition environment were at a high standard and reflected great credit upon Canada.
*This is the second Meritorious Service Medal awarded to BGen Doyle.
Brigadier-General Luc Joseph Girouard, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
From 2022 to 2024, Brigadier-General Girouard, Director General Support / Strategic J4, Strategic Joint Staff, Ottawa, Ontario, led the initial phase of the J4 Strategic - Spiral 2 initiative to address the unbalanced and inconsistent state of the Defence supply chain. Despite the completion of Spiral 1 in 2014, Spiral 2 was not initiated in 2015 as planned; he therefore re‑launched the initiative and conducted thorough analyses. Brigadier-General Girouard received unanimous support for his logistical vision and recommendations, laying the groundwork for the strategic alignment of the logistics capabilities of the Canadian Armed Forces.
*This is the second Meritorious Service Medal awarded to BGen Girouard.
Recipients of a 1st award of the Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)
Master Corporal Russell Douglas Everett Ashwood, M.S.M.
On 20 June 2023 while serving with 2 Combat Engineer Regiment (2 CER), Master Corporal Ashwood demonstrated exemplary leadership and expertise as he spearheaded critical planning, preparation and coordination for the 2 CER Dive Team amidst treacherous aquatic conditions following the CH-147 helicopter crash. Although, as a combat diver, he is not trained in salvage operations, he recovered the flight data recorder and one of the pilots. Master Corporal Ashwood’s actions are a testament to the professionalism of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Squadron Leader Ellie Mae Aurisch – Australian Armed Forces
Since October 2021, Squadron Leader Aurisch has served in an exceptional manner as the Assistant Australian Defence Attaché to Canada and the Australian Liaison Officer to the Canadian Joint Operations Command. In particular, she has been instrumental in strengthening senior leadership partnerships that have enabled the development of Operation HORIZON and the operationalization of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. Squadron Leader Aurisch’s remarkable foresight and superior leadership abilities have greatly benefited both the Australian Defence Forces and the Canadian Armed Forces.
Major Christopher Robert Boileau, M.S.M., C.D.
While serving as the commander of Joint Task Force - Ukraine from September 2022 to March 2023, Major Boileau demonstrated exceptional leadership and an endless drive for mission success in a dynamic and volatile environment. His efforts directly resulted in the resumption of multiple training activities, leading to significant Canadian support to Ukraine and contributing to enhanced national reputation. The remarkable dedication, perseverance, diplomacy and mission focus demonstrated by Major Boileau brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and Canada.
Captain Jennifer Rose Casey, M.S.M., C.D. (posthumously)
As a public affairs officer, Captain Casey raised the profile of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) through her creative use of social media campaigns for both the CF-18 Demonstration Team in 2018, and the Snowbirds from 2019 to 2020. As the architect of Operation INSPIRATION, she led the CAF’s largest social media outreach to date, in which more than 25 million viewers were informed about the CAF’s ongoing activities. Her tireless efforts had a truly positive impact on Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ms. Morgan Muise to receive on behalf of the family of the late Captain Jennifer Casey.
Lieutenant(N) Ian Matthew Clarke, M.S.M., C.D.
While deployed on Operation REASSURANCE, Lieutenant(N) Clarke demonstrated exceptional leadership under extremely demanding circumstances. In response to a forward engine room fire on HMCS Fredericton on November 18, 2021, he expertly managed multiple chaotic inputs from damage control and engineering teams dispersed throughout the ship. This enabled the crew to extinguish the fire, restore propulsion and safely proceed to port for repairs. Lieutenant(N) Clarke’s remarkable professionalism ensured Fredericton remained an asset to a vital Canadian military operation.
Major Joseph Yvan Engelbert Eric Cottenoir, M.S.M., C.D.
From July 2018 to July 2023, Major Cottenoir was posted to the United Nations Headquarters in New York, Office of the Special Coordinator on Improving the UN Response to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse. His key contributions accelerated the implementation of the Secretary-General’s Strategy on Preventing and Responding to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, while advancing Canada’s agenda for women, peace and security on the global stage. Major Cottenoir’s exceptional leadership, expertise and professionalism greatly honoured the Canadian Armed Forces and Canada.
Sergeant Marie-Michèle Martine Dallaire, M.S.M., C.D.
From 2020 to 2023, Sergeant Dallaire, Assistant to the Canadian Defence Attaché in Poland, demonstrated exemplary dedication and remarkable professionalism toward the Embassy and during several named operations, including AEGIS, REASSURANCE, UNIFIER and UNION. She played a pivotal role in coordinating diplomatic efforts, improving administrative efficiency and facilitating critical support to Canadian Armed Forces operations, notably during the evacuation of Afghan citizens and the war in Ukraine. Sergeant Dallaire’s actions greatly enhanced the international standing of Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces.
Colonel Patrick Norbert Feuerherm, M.S.M., C.D.
From 2020 to 2024, Colonel Feuerherm, director of Logistics Programs, Strategic Joint Staff, Ottawa, Ontario, led a transformative review of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Ammunition and Explosives portfolio. His efforts identified critical gaps in inventory management and established foundational requirements with the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army and the Royal Canadian Air Force. Colonel Feuerherm’s leadership secured government funding under the Our North, Strong and Free defense policy update, greatly enhancing CAF readiness and national security outcomes.
Sergeant Adam Marc Gauthier, M.S.M., C.D.
As a military police investigator, Sergeant Gauthier demonstrated exceptional investigative fortitude, leadership and empathy following a single-vehicle accident on April 29, 2022, at Point Frederick, Royal Military College, in Kingston, Ontario. Despite not being on call, he immediately deployed to support investigators, orchestrating the complex involvement of multiple agencies and securing specialty services. Sergeant Gauthier’s compassion and professionalism were evident in interviews with affected witnesses and in his interactions with the families of the deceased. His selfless actions exemplify the ideals of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Lieutenant-Colonel Brian John Gendron-Houle, M.S.M., C.D.
From June to December 2023, Lieutenant-Colonel Gendron-Houle, Section Head, Force Posture and Readiness, Strategic Joint Staff, Ottawa, Ontario, revitalized the managed readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) by leading the digital transformation and developing new tools to enhance reporting and decision making. His leadership and collaboration significantly improved CAF readiness, earning him recognition from NATO and allied nations. Lieutenant-Colonel Gendron-Houle’s efforts positively influenced senior leadership decision making, bringing great credit to the CAF and to Canada.
Major Jordon Dean Harpe, M.S.M., C.D.
From 2021 to 2024, as air planner for NATO’s Multinational Division Southeast (MND-SE) in Bucharest, Romania, Major Harpe demonstrated remarkable leadership and professionalism in fundamentally transforming air-land integration. He developed the Joint Fires and Effects Team concept, overcoming resource constraints and earning NATO acclaim. His relentless work, which included training and conducting exercises, demonstrated MND-SE’s tactical air command and control capability. Major Harpe’s efforts enhanced NATO’s capabilities and brought significant recognition to the Canadian Armed Forces and Canada.
Sergeant Alexander Joseph Henri, M.S.M., C.D.
While deployed to Rzeszow, Poland, from January to July 2024, as the liaison officer to the Remote-Maintenance Distribution Centre – Ukraine, Sergeant Henri revolutionized the maintenance network for Canadian donated armoured combat support vehicles. He greatly increased contacts within the Armed Forces of Ukraine and established protocols that streamlined information flow, thereby significantly reducing response times for critical maintenance issues. Throughout his deployment, Sergeant Henri demonstrated outstanding motivation and technical knowledge, furthering mission objectives, which brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces.
Colonel Benjamin James Lane Irvine, M.S.M., C.D.
From September 2022 to August 2023, Colonel Irvine as the Task Force commander for Operation CROCODILE, and as the deputy chief of staff of Operations and Plans for the United Nations Organization (UN) Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, demonstrated exceptional leadership. His remarkable innovation directly influenced operational decisions taken in support of one the largest UN mission. Despite working in a complex and dynamic political environment, Colonel Irvine maintained mission focus in both the UN and Canadian Armed Forces roles, which yielded far-reaching strategic impacts.
Warrant Officer Eric James Johnston, M.S.M., C.D.
From March to September 2023, Warrant Officer Johnston was deployed as part of Operation UNION, in support of the Global Affairs Canada (GAC) mission in Ukraine. As the J35 Operations and Plans senior non-commissioned officer, he displayed outstanding proficiency while planning and executing simultaneous high-risk operations. Warrant Officer Johnston’s dedication to operational excellence and mission success directly led to a more efficient employment of task force resources, enabling GAC to expand its mission within Ukraine and to further Canadian interests abroad.
Major Nicholas Edward Kaempffer, M.S.M., C.D.
From August 2020 to December 2023, as a member of the Joint Targeting and Effects Team at the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, in Belgium, Major Kaempffer initiated the development and implementation of a targeting framework which established the first strategic-level, synchronized Joint Fires capability in NATO. His work directly advanced the Alliance’s readiness to synchronize campaign-level joint targeting. Major Kaempffer’s high level of professionalism, leadership and stewardship enhanced Canada’s credibility on the international stage.
Major Tyler Jay Kennedy, M.S.M., C.D.
From July 2019 to July 2023, Major Kennedy demonstrated exemplary leadership and innovation as Officer of Primary Interest for the Multi-National Field Artillery Brigade (MN-FAB) project at Headquarters Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, United Kingdom. His role in MN-FAB concept development, planning and execution of proof-of-concept exercises DYNAMIC FRONT 22 and 23 showcased his remarkable dedication and resulted in groundbreaking NATO doctrine. Major Kennedy was commended as the pivotal contributor to MN-FAB’s realization, and his professionalism significantly enhanced Canada’s reputation among NATO allies.
Sergeant Marie-Pier Louise Laflamme, M.S.M, C.D.
From July 6 to 15, 2023, Sergeant Laflamme led a five-member Canadian contingent on a joint mission in support of France’s Bastille Day celebrations in Paris. She quickly demonstrated her leadership by working closely with two French lieutenant-colonels. Her contributions were vital to the success of this international partnership, which brought together 70 musicians from 14 countries, overcoming a series of logistical challenges. Sergeant Laflamme successfully influenced culture in a complex international environment through her skills and dedication to the collective well-being.
Sergeant Simon Mathieu Joseph Laurent, M.S.M., C.D.
From January to July 2023, Sergeant Laurent demonstrated exemplary leadership as lead aircraft structures technician for the fixed-wing search and rescue aircraft (CC-295 Kingfisher) program. Thanks to his professionalism, dedication and technical expertise, he held several diverse roles that were essential to the success of this project. Sergeant Laurent’s efforts played an important role in advancing Canada’s fixed-wing search and rescue program. This capability will enhance the protection and support for Canadians from coast to coast for generations to come.
Major Richard John Sebastian Law, M.S.M., C.D.
As officer commanding the United Kingdom Training Element from June 2023 to January 2024, Major Law demonstrated outstanding leadership in preparing the Armed Forces of Ukraine to adeptly defend against Russian aggression. In particular, important changes to explosive threat and medical training, as well as the incorporation of uncrewed aircraft systems into all aspects of training ensured students possessed the skills needed to thrive on the battlefield. Major Law strengthened relations and enhanced Canada’s standing among the 10 nations participating in the United Kingdom’s Operation INTERFLEX.
Major Cameron Alexander MacKay, M.S.M., C.D.
While commanding the Tactical Air Lift Detachment Europe from February to June 2022, as part of Operation REASSURANCE, Major MacKay provided exceptional contribution to the Ukrainian resistance. With keen mission focus and unwavering dedication, he worked with international allies and partners to ensure the timely delivery of two million pounds of high-priority aid, with a 100-per cent sortie success rate. Major MacKay’s impeccable efforts advanced the Canadian Armed Forces’ reputation internationally and resulted in positive strategic and political impacts for Canada.
Lieutenant-Colonel Simon Mailloux, M.S.M., C.D.
From July 2021 to June 2024, Lieutenant-Colonel Mailloux, posted to the United States Joint Staff in Washington, led the working group on consolidated international strategic operations, supporting the consolidation of strategic intelligence forecasting and increasing allied contributions. Within the Five Eyes community, he revised a multinational strategy and developed an implementation plan, guiding campaigns and capacity development in 12 interoperability forums. Lieutenant-Colonel Mailloux’s strategic leadership, capabilities and exceptional efforts brought great honour to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.
Lieutenant-Colonel Jonathan Réal Denis Martineau, M.S.M., C.D.
While posted to Wiesbaden, Germany, from September to November 2022, as deputy commander of operational training within the Security Assistance Group – Ukraine, Lieutenant-Colonel Martineau increased capabilities and results by harmonizing and synchronizing training among strategic partners. Specifically, he developed a sustainable conceptual framework and established a multinational branch that now serves as the primary coordinating structure for the delivery of training by all coalition countries. Lieutenant-Colonel Martineau’s outstanding contributions have brought great honour to Canada.
Master Sailor Corbin Lewis McLachlan, M.S.M., C.D.
From 2017 to 2023, following a Supreme Court of Canada appeal, Master Sailor McLachlan, a Canadian Forces National Investigation Service member, displayed impeccable dedication during a high-profile international investigation. His attention to detail and foreign co-operation with diplomatic services and host-country police authorities highlighted his cross-jurisdictional and international operability. He doggedly sought justice for victims while upholding the protections afforded to all Canadians under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Warrant Officer Nathan William Taylor Miller, M.S.M., C.D.
On June 20, 2023, while serving with the 2 Combat Engineer Regiment, Warrant Officer Miller assumed a crucial role in orchestrating and navigating the complexities of a dive operation to salvage a downed Chinook helicopter. Amid perilous aquatic challenges, Warrant Officer Miller’s meticulous planning and innovative problem-solving proved indispensable in safely extracting the second pilot. Warrant Officer Miller’s steadfast commitment and outstanding performance exemplify the highest standards of military dedication, bringing honour to the Canadian Armed Forces.
Lieutenant-Colonel Ryan John Moore, M.S.M., C.D.
As a member of the J5 Staff at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, in Belgium, from 2020 to 2023, Lieutenant-Colonel Moore exhibited influential leadership and strategic acumen. His instrumental contributions encompassed formulating NATO’s Land Domain Subordinate Strategic Plan, harmonizing regional plans and facilitating the revolutionary Concept for Deterrence and Defence of the Euro-Atlantic Area. The complexity of his work and its effect at the political and strategic levels in this multinational context demonstrated Lieutenant-Colonel Moore’s tireless dedication and intellectual prowess, reflecting immense honour on Canada.
Sailor 1st class Paul Joseph Paquette, M.S.M., C.D.
From June to July 2023, Sailor 1st Class, Paquette demonstrated exceptional professionalism and technical skill throughout several dives during the underwater recovery of a crashed Chinook helicopter from the Ottawa River. This was the Royal Canadian Navy’s most complex salvage operation and the heaviest load it has ever recovered using in-water lifting techniques. Diving alone into the confined wreckage with extremely limited visibility, Sailor 1st Class Paquette rendered safe several explosive cartridges by hand and located vital lifting points, enabling the safe recovery of the helicopter.
Lieutenant-Commander Shawn Edwin Perry, M.S.M, C.D.
From August 2019 to August 2023, Lieutenant-Commander Perry, Deputy Canadian Defence Attaché in Warsaw, Poland, excelled during the Ukraine crisis, facilitating Operation UNIFIER’s redeployment and negotiating with Host Nation authorities under COVID restrictions. His diplomatic expertise ensured the evacuation of Canadian Armed Forces personnel and equipment, while his mastery of Polish procedures enhanced collaboration. Lieutenant-Commander Perry’s exemplary leadership, dedication and professionalism brought immense credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and Canada, solidifying his reputation as an indispensable asset in challenging circumstances.
Colonel David Donald Saunders, M.S.M., C.D.
From August 2021 to August 2023, Colonel Saunders served as the Canadian defence attaché to Iraq and Kuwait. His strategic insight and diplomatic acumen superbly supported Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) operations and defence diplomacy. He quickly grasped the complex politics of Iraq and proved himself a shrewd diplomat. Colonel Saunders’ unfailing professionalism and dedication in a demanding operational environment brought great honour to the CAF and Canada.
Lieutenant-Colonel Reginald Richard Sharpe, M.S.M., C.D.
From July 2020 to June 2022, Lieutenant-Colonel Sharpe demonstrated outstanding professionalism as commanding officer of the Real Properties Operations Unit–West. He proactively planned and led infrastructure service delivery and maintenance program improvements across nine Canadian Armed Forces bases, which resulted in fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint on the part of National Defence. Lieutenant-Colonel Sharpe’s foresight and exemplary leadership were critical to departmental success, and directly enabled the advancement of Government of Canada priorities laid out in Canada’s defence policy.
Major Craig David Skelsey, M.S.M., C.D.
Major Skelsey was deployed to Adazi, Latvia, from December 2022 to June 2023 as the Canadian Artillery Battery commander. He took on the additional role of commander of the inaugural Multinational Field Artillery Battalion, a unit comprised of five artillery batteries from seven nations. Through exceptional work ethic, he successfully integrated these sub-units into a cohesive and operationally effective unit, which subsequently proved itself in live fire and combat-readiness evaluation. Major Skelsey’s unparalleled professionalism brought great credit to Canada.
Sergeant Jennifer Leah Sutton, M.S.M., C.D.
From July 2021 until February 2022, Sergeant Sutton acted as the Canadian defence advisor (CDA) to Australia, carrying the full range of duties and accountabilities of the departed CDA. She fulfilled the additional responsibilities of a colonel position while maintaining her primary duties as the CDA’s assistant. Despite being significantly under ranked, Sergeant Sutton executed all aspects of the Canadian Armed Forces’ Military Diplomacy and Global Engagement Program in Australia, achieving greater interoperability and enhanced delivery of defence capabilities for ongoing, contingency and potential operations.
Colonel Chantal Jocelyne Tetreault, M.S.M., C.D.
Colonel Tetreault exhibited exceptional leadership and diplomacy as the chief of liaison for the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Sinai, from July 2022 to August 2023. She played a pivotal role in maintaining the freedom of movement within the MFO’s area of operations, a critical element in upholding regional stability. Colonel Tetreault ensured the relationship between treaty partners Israel and Egypt remained cordial, underpinning the mission’s broader objectives and the foundational Camp David Peace Treaty.
Master Warrant Officer Robert Douglas Tholberg, M.S.M., C.D.
From 2016 to 2019, Master Warrant Officer Tholberg showed exceptional leadership and demonstrated an inspirational work ethic, garnering praise from over a dozen NATO nations while ensuring that all logistical and administrative requirements for Exercise PRECISE RESPONSE were satisfied despite a very challenging environment. His tremendous leadership, hard work and professionalism guaranteed the repeated successes of this live-agent NATO Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear exercise, and brought credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.