Meritorious Service Cross
- Awarded on: July 21, 2022
- Invested on: May 11, 2024
Rank: Captain
On March 2, 2021, Captain Appolloni, a CH-149 Cormorant aircraft commander, displayed outstanding professionalism during the search and rescue mission of fishing vessel Atlantic Destiny, 240 kilometres off the coast of Nova Scotia. His perseverance and exceptional piloting skills in extreme weather conditions, coupled with his response to a critical in-flight emergency, ensured mission success. Captain Appolloni’s extraordinary leadership and actions contributed to the rescue of all 31 sailors from the sinking vessel.