Meritorious Service Cross
- Awarded on: October 6, 1986
- Invested on: October 29, 1986
Rank: Lieutenant-Colonel
On 28 June 1984, as the Acting Chief of Staff and during the absence of the Force Commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Ethell made arrangements for an exchange of more than 300 prisoners of war between Syria and Israel. This delicate exchange, which had been more than two years in the making, was affected with only 36 hours advance notice. Furthermore, it was conducted under the threat of armed intervention form both sides and a myriad of other distractions which could have jeopardized the arrangements. Lieutenant-Colonel Ehtell`s leadership and personal supervision averted any such calamity, and thereby secured both the reputation and future role of the United Nations with the two countries. Similarly, on 20 May 1985, he was instrumental in effecting an exchange of 154 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel for three Israelis held by Syria. Lieutenant-Colonel Ethell`s outstanding professional performance of military duties was of a rare, high standard that has been applauded by senior military officers, diplomats and civilians of many nations, reflecting great credit on both himself and the Canadian Forces.
