Meritorious Service Decorations - Military Division
Meritorious Service Medal
Awarded on: 2013-04-19
Invested on: 2013-09-12
From April to November 2011, Major Sawatzky deployed to Afghanistan as the engineer regiment infrastructure officer within the Mission Transition Task Force. She developed and executed a plan that ensured the smooth transfer of over 250 buildings and other infrastructure from Canada to its allies. Facing intense pressure from other nations, Major Sawatzky demonstrated commendable leadership and diplomatic abilities, which contributed to both the successful closure of Canada’s combat mission in Afghanistan and to Canada’s reputation for professionalism and international co-operation.