Meritorious Service Decorations - Military Division
Meritorious Service Medal
Awarded on: 2012-11-30
Invested on: 2013-03-22
From September to November 2011, Colonel Rafter displayed leadership while deployed to Italy as part of Canada’s contribution to the NATO-led mission to protect the people of Libya. As chief of staff and subsequently commander of Task Force Libeccio, he arrived at a challenging time for the mission and was essential in rectifying long-standing issues and maintaining the uninterrupted conduct of flying operations. Colonel Rafter’s leadership, professionalism and diplomacy were critical to operational success, and brought great credit to Canada.