Her Excellency the Right Honourable Louise Arbour, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, will recognize 38 individuals whose deeds during military duties have brought honour to our country. The ceremony will take place at Rideau Hall on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.

The Governor General will present nine Meritorious Service Crosses (M.S.C.) and 29 Meritorious Service Medals (M.S.M) as part of the Meritorious Service Decorations (Military Division).

Colonel Joseph Léo-Cédric Aspirault, O.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.

During his posting to Ādaži, Latvia, from June 2024 to June 2025, Colonel Aspirault distinguished himself as the first commander of Multinational Brigade – Latvia. By providing excellent leadership to 3,500 troops from 14 countries, he succeeded in deterring aggression, strengthening cohesion within NATO and transforming the forward land forces into a combat-capable formation. Colonel Aspirault’s professionalism, diplomatic skills and extraordinary operational abilities have greatly strengthened the reputation and effectiveness of the Canadian Armed Forces in Europe, bringing great credit to Canada.

Colonel Jeremy Roger Hansen, M.S.C., C.D. 

Colonel Hansen demonstrated extraordinary professionalism and leadership as a mission specialist on the Artemis II mission that occurred from April 1 to 10, 2026. As the first Canadian and first non-American to travel beyond low Earth orbit, he contributed directly to the successful execution of the first crewed lunar mission in more than five decades. Colonel Hansen's exemplary performance enhanced Canada's international credibility and advanced national interest in human spaceflight, bringing great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

Master Sailor Richard Joseph Helsby-Handley, M.S.C., C.D.

From September 2021 to April 2025, Master Sailor Helsby-Handley displayed exceptional contributions to the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) by revitalizing Canada’s Signals Intelligence capabilities. His efforts restored collection operations, enhanced training and supported deployed CAF personnel. He led system upgrades for Royal Canadian Navy ships and advised on a Five Eyes modernization initiative. Master Sailor Helsby-Handley’s technical mastery, leadership and international collaboration ensured uninterrupted collection, enhanced maritime and terrestrial operations, and delivered enduring strategic effects, strengthening Canada’s intelligence community presence.

Colonel Vincent Gustav Kirstein, M.S.C., C.D.

While deployed to Riga from August 2022 to August 2024, Colonel Kirstein performed in an extraordinary manner as the commander of Task Force Latvia. In this role, he expertly and diplomatically coordinated multinational operations to ensure mission success. Moreover, his strategic foresight was critical in evolving Task Force Latvia towards the current Forward Land Forces Brigade. Colonel Kirstein’s remarkable professionalism and dedication significantly advanced ’Canada’s NATO objectives, and enhanced international co-operation and operational effectiveness.

Colonel Keven Larocque, M.S.C., C.D.

From September 2024 to July 2025, Colonel Larocque provided extraordinary leadership as the Task Force commander assigned to Operation CROCODILE and as the deputy chief of staff responsible for Operations and Plans for the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In a volatile environment characterized by increased armed‑group activity, he was able to meet complex challenges with exceptional skill and determination. Through his outstanding efforts, Colonel Larocque has greatly strengthened Canada’s credibility on the international stage

Chief Warrant Officer Dave Robert Limon, M.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.

While deployed to Ādaži, Latvia, from June 2024 to June 2025, Chief Warrant Officer Limon demonstrated extraordinary leadership as the sergeant major of Multinational Brigade – Latvia. He played a central role in establishing the brigade, developing comprehensive administrative and disciplinary procedures for the 14 contributing countries and providing sound and insightful advice that informed the brigade commander’s decision-making process. In addition, the mentorship that he provided to the multinational sergeant majors significantly improved the operational capability and interoperability of the brigade. Chief Warrant Officer Limon’s unwavering professionalism has brought great credit to Canada.

Chief Warrant Officer Kevin James Mathers, M.M.M., M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.

From 2022 to 2025, as the first Canadian Command Senior Enlisted Leader at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, Chief Warrant Officer Mathers reflected great credit upon Canada for his extraordinary performance as NATO’s most senior non-commissioned member (NCM). His personal leadership during the reinvigoration of Combat Readiness Evaluation methodology for Forward Land Forces as well as his enhancement of the NCM professional development programme to a warfighting and readiness focus, significantly elevated the profile and esteem of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Lieutenant-Colonel Cole Franklin Petersen, M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.

Lieutenant-Colonel Petersen demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic foresight and unwavering commitment to mission success while deployed to Warsaw, Poland, from July 2024 to February 2025. As task force commander of Operation UNIFIER—the Canadian Armed ’Forces’ military training, professionalization and capacity-building mission in support of Ukraine—he oversaw eight force elements across an extensive geographical area. His operational expertise provided focused objectives resulting in task force coherence and effectiveness. Lieutenant-Colonel Petersen’s extraordinary performance during a critical operational period reflected great credit upon Canada.

Colonel David Keith Turenne, M.S.C., C.D.

In June 2025, Colonel Turenne demonstrated extraordinary leadership as director of the Combined Air Operations Center during the Israel-Iran conflict. His strategic clarity, courage and diplomatic skill were pivotal in synchronizing multinational air operations, preserving coalition cohesion and enabling the safe evacuation of 10,000 personnel from the Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, Qatar, which was under imminent missile threat. Operating in an exceptionally complex and high-risk environment, Colonel Turenne’s composure and decisive actions were instrumental to the coalition’s success.

Chief Warrant Officer Robert Joseph Clarke, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D. 

Chief Warrant Officer Clarke served as sergeant major of the Multinational Force and Observers, Sinai, Egypt, from July 2023 to July 2024. His exceptional leadership and professionalism led to greater operational readiness of the Force and enhanced the development of non-commissioned officers of many nations. His calm demeanor and thoughtful approach when dealing with difficult situations were particularly commendable during a period of heightened tensions in the region. Chief Warrant Officer Clarke’s credibility and outstanding contribution reflected tremendously on Canada. *This is the second Meritorious Service Medal awarded to CWO Clarke.

Brigadier-General Francis William Radiff, M.S.M., C.D. 

From 2020 to 2023, Brigadier-General Radiff served with distinction as deputy commander of the Alaska NORAD Region, demonstrating exceptional leadership during heightened geopolitical tensions. He oversaw NORAD’s historic cross-border aerial engagements, enhanced intelligence integration and improved continental situational awareness. His restructuring of the Air Operations Centre and mentorship of senior leaders directly advanced mission effectiveness and fighter readiness. In subsequent roles, Brigadier-General Radiff championed innovation, strengthened binational cooperation and advanced continental defence modernisation, earning enduring recognition for exemplary service.

Colonel Steeve Joseph Louis Patrick Belley, M.S.M., C.D.

As Air Task Force Commander during the Canadian Armed Forces support operation for the 2025 G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Colonel Belley demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational expertise. Drawing on resources from across the country, he assembled a cohesive team, successfully integrated it with joint and interagency partners, and delivered decisive and critical air power to protect one of Canada’s premier international events. Colonel Belley’s vision, professionalism and dedication brought great credit to Canada and ensured mission success in a complex and highly visible security environment.

Lieutenant-Colonel James Peter Boddy, M.S.M., C.D. 

From July 2023 to January 2024, while serving as commander of Joint Task Force–Ukraine, Lieutenant-Colonel Boddy advanced Canada’s interests with both Ukraine and its allies. Possessing a rare level of operational planning acumen, he demonstrated comprehensive understanding of a complex and evolving mission, played a crucial role in improving information flow to the Canadian Joint Operations Command, and contributed to aligning Canadian planning efforts for Operation UNIFIER. Lieutenant-Colonel Boddy’s leadership and relationship building will have an enduring impact on Operation UNIFIER’s legacy.

Master Corporal Vincent Joseph Sylvain C. Benoit, M.S.M., C.D. 

On December 27, 2023, Master Corporal C. Benoit was leading a three-person search and rescue team after a plane crashed with 10 people on board, 305 nautical kilometres northeast of Yellowknife. Despite the significant challenges, faced with extreme arctic conditions, winds of 93 km/h and near no visibility, Master Corporal C. Benoit ensured the successful deployment of parachutes, coordinated rescue operations and directed care to survivors. His leadership and decisive actions ensured the safe extraction of the ten survivors, demonstrating professionalism, daring and dedication to a mission that put human lives at risk. 

Commander Stephen Kyle Churm, M.S.M., C.D.

As naval reserve special advisor for Workplace Relations from 2018 to 2023, Commander Churm provided outstanding guidance to Command teams and members at all levels on workplace relations, conflict resolution and crisis management. A recognized expert across the Canadian Armed Forces, he answered all calls with empathy and precision, offering mentorship and professional development sessions that significantly enhanced the professional conduct of institutional leaders. His steadfast dedication has been instrumental in advancing the cultural evolution of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Chief Warrant Officer Joseph François Paul Fleury, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.

As Military Personnel Command Chief Warrant Officer, Chief Warrant Officer Fleury’s visionary leadership enabled the historic 2025 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) compensation reform and drove momentum in recruitment, retention and training systems. Through clear communication, precise interactions and a keen sense of priorities, he maintained team cohesion and ensured smooth submission processes. His discreet yet decisive influence synchronized efforts and he excelled in briefings with senior leaders and stakeholders, delivering lasting impact for all CAF members.

Corporal Alexandre Joseph Alain Fortin, M.S.M., C.D.

On December 27, 2023, Corporal Fortin, a search and rescue technician, and his team rescued ten people after a plane crashed 305 nautical kilometres northeast of Yellowknife. Despite a nighttime blizzard and high winds, Corporal Fortin parachuted to the site. Unaware of all the difficulties, he entered the unstable wreckage to rescue seriously injured passengers, remaining on site for hours despite the possibility of the wreckage slipping. For 14 hours, he stabilized a seriously injured survivor until they were evacuated. Thanks to his exceptional talent, determination and dedication, all ten people were saved. 

Lieutenant-General Blaise Francis Frawley, C.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.

Lieutenant-General Frawley demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision as Deputy Commander of NORAD and Commander of the Canadian Element NORAD from 2023 to 2025. He spearheaded modernization initiatives, integrating advanced surveillance and command systems that strengthened Arctic and continental defence. Through visionary strategy, operational excellence and international engagement, he reinforced binational cooperation, NATO partnerships and Canadian sovereignty. Lieutenant-General Frawley’s outstanding service has significantly advanced North American security and left a lasting impact on Canada’s defence posture.

Major Daniel Andrew Gray, M.S.M., C.D.

While deployed to Wiesbaden, Germany, from February to August 2024, Major Gray demonstrated outstanding leadership while serving within the Security Assistance Group – Ukraine as executive officer to the Deputy Commanding General – Training, J75 – chief of training plans, and J7 forward liaison officer. In these roles, his exceptional adaptability ensured seamless coalition support and significantly advanced multinational training efforts. Major Gray’s perseverance, dedication and exemplary service in an extremely dynamic environment directly contributed to mission success and brought great honour to Canada.

Major-General Martin Gros-Jean, C.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.

As assistant chief of Military Personnel, Major-General Gros-Jean’s exceptional leadership and strategic coordination were pivotal in advancing the 2025 defence compensation reform. His efforts enabled the Government’s vision to grow and modernize the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), generating lasting momentum in recruiting, retention and training systems. Through high-level engagement and clear communication, he delivered transformative change, strengthening operational readiness and institutional excellence for future generations of CAF personnel, ensuring the CAF is future-ready to meet national defence ambitions.

Corporal Mathew James Henry, M.S.M.

On 27 December 2023, Search and Rescue Technician, Corporal Henry, participated in a difficult rescue mission after an aircraft crash northeast of Yellowknife. Amid a nighttime blizzard, he parachuted to the crash site despite the challenges. He cared for the victims, established shelters and worked tirelessly to ensure their survival. For 14 hours, he remained with a critically injured patient, providing continuous care. Corporal Henry’s exceptional skill and determination ensured the survival of all ten individuals.

Sailor 1st Class Kristopher Mark Heywood, M.S.M.

From June to July 2023, Sailor 1st Class Heywood demonstrated exceptional skill and steadfast resolve throughout several dives during the underwater recovery of a crashed Chinook helicopter from the Ottawa River. Diving alone into the wreckage, he retrieved critical components for the Directorate of Flight Safety investigation that were not expected to be recovered. Sailor 1st Class Heywood also severed a high-pressure air line, mitigating the risk of further fuel-oil contamination of the river and reducing the hazard for the diving team.

Chief Warrant Officer Michel Hudon, M.S.M., C.D.

From June 2024 to July 2025, Chief Warrant Officer Hudon demonstrated exemplary leadership as Task Force Middle East Sergeant Major, in a time of heightened regional tension. His strategic vision and dedication contributed to the achievement of key priorities while strengthening trust across a dispersed task force operating in seven countries. By championing systemic improvements, fostering psychological safety and leading initiatives that enhanced interoperability and modernization, he significantly improved operational effectiveness and allied relations. Chief Warrant Officer Hudon’s professionalism and accomplishments have brought great credit to Canada. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Ryan Michael Huggett Kastrukoff, M.S.M., C.D.

As commandant of Barker College from June 2021 to June 2024, Lieutenant-Colonel Kastrukoff demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative in advancing the Royal Canadian Air ’Force’s (RCAF) culture. By independently developing and operationalizing innovative training programs such as the Character Application and Transformation workshop, he empowered instructors and leaders across the RCAF. His efforts directly contributed to institutional transformation, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities. Lieutenant-Colonel Kastrukoff’s outstanding dedication and creativity have profoundly impacted the professional culture of the RCAF and the Canadian Armed ’Forces.

Lieutenant-Colonel Marc Raymond Kieley, M.S.M., C.D.

From September 2022 to July 2024, Lieutenant-Colonel Kieley served as the Canadian Army G35 and lead planner for expanding Op REASSURANCE’s enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group into NATO’s Multinational Brigade in Latvia. Through formal and informal leadership, he coordinated with the Canadian Armed Forces, NATO and allied stakeholders. Lieutenant-Colonel Kieley’s tireless efforts ensured critical deadlines were met for mounting, deployment and projection, directly enabling the Brigade’s establishment in July 2024 and the Battle Group’s migration in October 2024.

Lieutenant-Colonel Jean-François Joseph Claude Labonté, M.S.M., C.D.

During his deployment to Ādaži from June to December 2024, Lieutenant-Colonel Labonté demonstrated exceptional leadership as the first commander of the multinational battlegroup in Latvia. His unit experienced a significant reduction in its capabilities and operational control during the transition to a multinational brigade. Undaunted, he quickly adapted his team, implementing new command processes and support mechanisms that ensured mission success despite reduced resources by a third. Lieutenant-Colonel Labonté’s remarkable professionalism and adaptability have been a great credit to Canada. 

Sergeant Simon-Luc Joseph Jacques Lavoie, M.S.M, C.D.

From 2018 to 2024, Sergeant Lavoie demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication as a medical technician. He played a key role in the creation and success of the new speciality: combat support squadron medical technician. He also ensured that Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) units retained essential life-saving qualifications, while assisting an international trauma organization in developing its course manual, which is now used worldwide. Sergeant Lavoie’s efforts have brought great honour to both the CAF and Canada. 

Brigadier-General Stephen Mark Parsons, M.S.M., C.D.

Brigadier-General Parsons displayed remarkable professionalism in various challenging positions within the United States Security Coordinator (USSC) organization while deployed to Israel from June 2022 to July 2023. As director of reform, command and control, he was instrumental in driving foundational changes within the Palestinian Authority Security Forces. As deputy coordinator of support and commander of Task Force Jerusalem, he made pivotal contributions to bolstering the credibility of the USSC’s mission and objectives. Brigadier-General Parson’s expertise brought great credit to Canada.

Lieutenant-Colonel Manuel Pelletier-Bédard, M.S.M., C.D.

From July 2022 to June 2024, Lieutenant-Colonel Pelletier-Bédard played a pivotal role in the development and deployment of the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia, one of Canada’s largest deployments in nearly thirty years. His outstanding work with NATO allies and as a point of contact for Canada’s whole-of-government efforts in the establishment of the brigade contributed to NATO’s deterrence and defence measures in Europe. Lieutenant-Colonel Pelletier-Bédard’s exceptional leadership in carrying out this rapid and unprecedented initiative was a credit to Canada. 

Lieutenant-Colonel David Christopher Prodger, M.S.M., C.D.

From February 2024 to August 2025, Lieutenant-Colonel Prodger, Canada’s representative to the Allied Air Force Capability Coalition, demonstrated exceptional leadership in support of Ukraine’s Air Force. He designed Canada’s first Fighter Lead-in Training programs, tailored to both new cadets and experienced Soviet-era fighter pilots, enabling accelerated transition to F-16 operations. His innovative approach, leveraging Canadian aviation industry expertise, filled a critical Allied training gap. Lieutenant-Colonel Prodger’s vision positioned Canada as a lead nation within the Allied Air Force Capability Coalition.

Lieutenant-Colonel Neil Robert Ryan, M.S.M., C.D.

Since assuming command of the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Control Operations in July 2023, Lieutenant-Colonel Ryan has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision as commandant and force generation manager for the Aerospace Control Officer and Aerospace Control Operator occupations. Through innovative training reform and international collaboration, he improved student success rates, reduced course durations and achieved over $157,000 in savings. His proactive efforts in infrastructure planning and recruitment revitalization have strengthened force generation, bringing great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces.

Brigadier General Jocelyn Schermerhorn, United States Air Force

From July 2023 to July 2025, Brigadier General Schermerhorn, United States Air Force, served as Deputy Joint Forces Air Component Commander and Deputy Commander, Canadian NORAD Region. She directed Canadian and joint air operations, safeguarding Arctic sovereignty, leading Operation NOBLE EAGLE responses and advancing multinational defence exercises. She oversaw Royal Canadian Air Force deployments, including Operations REASSURANCE, NEON, and ION, evacuating 1,500 Canadians. Her leadership strengthened Canada–U.S. defence cooperation and enhanced Canadian Armed Forces’ mission effectiveness.

Colonel John David Summerfield, M.S.M., C.D.

While deployed to Kuwait and Jordan from May 2023 to June 2024, Colonel Summerfield served with aplomb as commanding officer of Task Force - Middle East. He managed three unique operations while ensuring the well-being of personnel in seven countries, all while embracing the challenge of a mission personnel cap reduction and meeting Canadian Armed Forces reconstitution goals. Colonel Summerfield’s exceptional leadership had a profound impact on the Task Force operational success and strengthened Canada’s reputation as a reliable and capable international partner.

Brigadier-General Virginia Catherine Tattersall, C.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.

Brigadier-General Tattersall’s visionary leadership as the director general Compensation and Benefits, drove the 2025 defence compensation reform, expertly guiding multidisciplinary teams through accelerated policy development and briefing support in highly compressed timelines. Her ability to maintain a relentless pace, ensure rigorous senior reviews and unify stakeholders enabled swift approval and public rollout. These efforts empowered recruiting, retention and training systems, directly advancing Canada’s ambition to grow and future-proof the Canadian Armed Forces, while strengthening readiness, morale and institutional confidence.

Colonel Trevor James Teller, M.S.M., C.D.

As the commander of Task Force Jerusalem from June 2023 to July 2024, Colonel Teller led a highly effective Canadian Armed Forces and Canadian police contribution to the Office of the United States Security Coordinator to Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Under Colonel Teller’s exemplary leadership, Task Force Jerusalem provided outstanding professional advice and superb support to the Palestinian Authority Security Forces in their security sector reform efforts. Colonel Teller’s exceptional commitment reflected greatly upon Canada.

Lieutenant-Colonel Philippe Joseph Jean-Paul Sylvain Tremblay, M.S.M., C.D.

During his deployment to Ādaži, Latvia, from May 2024 to June 2025, Lieutenant‑Colonel Tremblay demonstrated exceptional leadership as the chief of staff of Multinational Brigade – Latvia. Despite limited resources, he quickly set up a headquarters structure for a staff of more than 100 members from 14 countries. In addition, his unifying approach laid the foundation for the NATO brigade’s operations and enabled the planning of complex multinational exercises. Lieutenant‑Colonel Tremblay’s professionalism and strategic vision contributed to the success of the mission and brought credit to Canada.

Major Jean-Sébastien Vallée, M.S.M., C.D.

While deployed to Ādaži, Latvia, from December 2024 to June 2025, Major Vallée demonstrated exceptional leadership as the commanding officer of the Headquarters and Signal Squadron and the G6 of the Multinational Brigade. He modernized communications systems and integrated complex initiatives from 14 nations, enabling the brigade to support NATO. During Exercise OAK RESOLVE, he digitized the brigade’s communications by integrating units and sensors, ensuring the achievement of targets and an advanced tactical capability. Major Vallée’s remarkable efforts laid a solid foundation for future rotations, bringing credit to Canada.

Chief Warrant Officer Jason James Yeremiy, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.

From May 2023 to June 2024, while deployed to Kuwait as sergeant-major of Task Force Middle East, Chief Warrant Officer Yeremiy’ demonstrated leadership and a mastery of skills that greatly contributed to mission success. His guidance, diligent outreach and positive approach increased the effectiveness and synergy of a team that spanned seven countries. Chief Warrant Officer Yeremiy’s exceptional professionalism and dedication directly contributed to ’Canada’s strategic objectives in the Middle East, bringing credit to the Canadian Armed Forces in a multinational setting.