- Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Meritorious Service Decorations - Military Division
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Meritorious Service Medal
- Awarded on: December 20, 1996
- Invested on: September 12, 1997
On December 1, 1995, under the direction of Commander Paulson, Her Majesty's Canadian Ship CALGARY was tasked to assist the sinking Motor Vessel Mount Olympus, which had sustained severe damage during an Atlantic storm. Aware that his own ship was low on fuel and that the distress vessel was over 700 kilometres away, Commander Paulson immediately cancelled plans to refuel, proceeded towards the vessel at high speed through heavy seas and established comprehensive rescue plans to cover all eventualities. With the ship still 100 kilometres away from the Mount Olympus, the CALGARY's helicopter crew flew to the stricken vessel and over a period of three hours, hoisted all 30 shipmates to a nearby freighter. The dramatic rescue operation was handled throughout with exceptional skill and professionalism, and brought credit to the Canadian Forces.
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Meritorious Service Medal
- Awarded on: June 23, 2003
- Invested on: November 26, 2004
Captain Paulson is recognized for his outstanding performance in command of HMSC Algonquin and his unfailing support to the Commander of Task Group 307.1 during Operation APOLLO from April to September 2002. His guidance and focus during the operational mission resulted in the greatest number of compliant boardings as well as the capture of four al-Qaeda suspects. His professionalism as flag ship captain permitted the effective command and control of both Canadian and coalition ships in support of the war against terrorism. His exemplary leadership has brought great credit to himself, to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.
* This is the second award of a Meritorious Service Medal to Cpt(N) Paulson.