May 22, 2026

Check against delivery

First and foremost, we would like to thank the First Nations who have taken care of this territory for millennia.

I am deeply moved to be with you for this presentation of the Order of Military Merit, as this is my final visit to the Citadelle as governor general and commander-in-chief of Canada.

Before a big departure, we often take one last look back over our shoulder.

Today, I would like to recognize your exceptional service by sharing what I have come to admire about the Canadian Armed Forces over the course of my mandate.

From day one, I made it a priority to learn as much as I could about your work.

The first time I wore the uniform, I was humbled by the profound pride it represents. This pride is earned through service, sacrifice and the responsibility that comes from representing something greater than oneself.

I have received regular updates from General Carignan. Her insights have deepened my understanding of your responsibilities. She also kept me informed about the well-being of our troops deployed in Latvia, the Middle East and elsewhere.

I have been struck by the scope of your mission and the breadth of your expertise.

You are professionals across an extraordinary range of trades, highly skilled, effective and dedicated.

I have been continually impressed by the agility and resilience you demonstrate throughout your careers.

You face shifting priorities, risks and immense pressure, often beyond what most Canadians will ever experience.

And yet, you continue to innovate to stay at the forefront of knowledge and technology.

I’ve had the privilege of meeting many of you, including the aides-de-camp and non-commissioned members who supported me as imagery technicians at Rideau Hall and on my travels.

I have rarely seen such rigour combined with such warmth.

I have presented national honours to Canadian Rangers from the Arctic and to distinguished veterans—remarkable people like General Rohmer, a hero of the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War.

I have witnessed the CAF in action during times of crisis, from responding to wildfires and floods across the country to supporting residents of retirement homes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

I have paid tribute to our fallen, from the National War Memorial in Ottawa to the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France, so that those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom are never forgotten.

I have also visited bases and regiments across Canada, including the Royal 22^e Régiment here at the Citadelle.

It was a great honour to be named an honorary member last fall.

On that same day, I met their mascot, Batisse, and had a look inside the regiment’s impressive LAV-6.

I was struck by the expertise and strong esprit de corps of the regiment’s members.

So, I am especially pleased that one of today’s appointees is a member of the “Van Doos.”

Appointees,

Over the past five years, I have been grateful for the opportunity to better understand and appreciate the vital work conducted by members of the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army and Royal Canadian Air Force.

I have also been honoured to present the Order of Military Merit to members who, like you, go above and beyond the call of duty every day.

Thank you for your exceptional service in protecting our freedom, our peace and our security—both at home and abroad.

In an increasingly complex and uncertain world, your role remains essential.

Let me conclude by acknowledging your families. Thank you for your support and sacrifice; they are essential to your loved one’s service.

Congratulations!