Media Advisory - Governor General to Honour Military Personnel at Rideau Hall

OTTAWA, April 3, 2017 /CNW/ - His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, will present Meritorious Service Decorations (Military Division) and Bravery Decorations to members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and allied forces at a ceremony at Rideau Hall, on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, at 10:30 a.m.

On this occasion, the Governor General will present 5 Meritorious Service Crosses (Military Division) and 18 Meritorious Service Medals (Military Division) to individuals whose specific achievements have brought honour to the CAF and to Canada. He will also present
1 Medal of Bravery to a CAF member who has performed an act of bravery in hazardous circumstances.

A media schedule for the presentation ceremony, a list of recipients and their citations, and additional information on the Meritorious Service Decorations and the Bravery Decorations are attached.

Media interested in covering the ceremony are asked to confirm their attendance with the
Rideau Hall Press Office and are asked to arrive at the Princess Anne Entrance no later than 10 a.m. on the day of the ceremony.

Follow GGDavidJohnston and RideauHall on Facebook and Twitter.

CEREMONY SCHEDULE

Members of the media are asked to observe the following schedule:

 

 

RECIPIENTS

MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS

Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)

 

 

Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)

 

 

BRAVERY DECORATIONS

Medal of Bravery

 

 

Please note that the information in this media advisory reflects
the rank of the recipient at the time of the event for which they are being recognized.

CITATIONS

MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS

Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division)

Colonel Joseph Raoul Stéphane Boivin, M.S.C., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

From June 2014 to July 2015, Colonel Boivin served as commander of Task Force El Gorah and as chief of liaison of the Multinational Force and Observers in Egypt. He demonstrated unwavering leadership and strong diplomatic skills in responding to a deteriorating security situation, and in managing a Canadian workforce that was doubling in size. His political sense and extraordinary dedication ensured operational success in one of Egypt's most violent regions.

Colonel Marie Hélène Lise Bourgon, M.S.C., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

As commander of Joint Task Force-Iraq from May to November 2015, and through her outstanding leadership, Colonel Bourgon ensured the success of a combat mission against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. She successfully managed numerous issues, with particular attention given to the morale and well-being of over 500 soldiers under her command. She provided an exceptional level of service, which contributed to strengthening Canada's reputation within the international coalition.

Colonel Shayne Elder, M.S.C., A.M.
Ottawa, Ontario

Colonel Elder was deployed to Kuwait from October 2015 to April 2016 as commander of Air Task Force-Iraq. An exceptional leader and innovator, he expertly drove combat flying operations against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, and maximized the capabilities of the Canadian Armed Forces aviation fleet, while also increasing the effectiveness of operational and maintenance personnel. Colonel Elder's professionalism and selfless dedication brought great credit to Canada.

Colonel Eric Jean Kenny, M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.
Cold Lake, Alberta

As commander of Air Task Force–Iraq in Kuwait from October 2014 to April 2015, Colonel Kenny exhibited outstanding leadership, and ensured an effective and credible combat capability in support of the coalition. His selfless dedication to his staff and tireless efforts to improve and sustain operations enabled the successful launch and recovery of more than 500 combat missions over Iraq. Colonel Kenny's remarkable performance during a challenging deployed combat operation brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

Warrant Officer Jason Adam Arthur Pawsey, M.S.C., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

While deployed, Warrant Officer Pawsey was the senior medical professional on staff when the enemy launched a significant, coordinated offensive against the coalition defensive line. Warrant Officer Pawsey worked tirelessly to treat multiple casualties with a small team of Canadian and allied soldiers. The leadership he demonstrated and the skilled medical interventions he performed despite limited resources directly accounted for numerous lives being saved during a mass casualty event of an unprecedented scale in that theatre of operations.

Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division)

Colonel John Joseph Alexander, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

Colonel Alexander was deployed to the Sinai from June 2015 to July 2016 as part of Canada's contribution to the Multinational Force and Observers. He provided exceptional leadership as chief of liaison and Canadian contingent commander in a period of ever-increasing threat and deteriorating security. Moreover, the diplomatic tact he displayed while collaborating with the Egyptian Security Forces and the Israeli Defence Forces was both remarkable and essential to the success of the mission.

Captain Aly Alibhai, M.S.M.
Montréal, Quebec

Captain Alibhai deployed to Jordan as a special operations planning and liaison officer. His detailed planning and extensive coordination resulted in the strengthening of whole-of-government relations between Canada and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. His outstanding leadership, technical expertise and unparalleled efforts to establish and maintain relationships with numerous stakeholders brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

Lieutenant-Colonel Timothy Maurice Arsenault, M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

Lieutenant-Colonel Arsenault was on assignment in Ukraine from January to August 2016 as commander of Operation UNIFIER, Canada's contribution to the international mission to support Ukrainian forces through capacity building. He influenced the mission at the tactical, operational and strategic levels by providing expert advice on the medical services and logistics programs, as well as by supporting improvements to the infrastructure of the Demining Centre in Kamyanets-Podilsky. He contributed in bolstering the Ukrainian armed forces' capabilities to defend their country and therefore solidified the Canadian Armed Forces' international reputation for excellence.

Colonel Bradley Scott Pearce Baker, M.S.M., C.D. (Ret'd)
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Colonel Baker served as Combined Air Operations Centre director at 1 Canadian Air Division Headquarters between July 2013 and July 2015. His exceptional leadership directly contributed to the outstanding operational effectiveness of the Royal Canadian Air Force in delivering air power for both domestic and expeditionary operations, and in support of NORAD. Colonel Baker's integrity and professional knowledge fostered unparalleled productivity within the Combined Air Operations Centre during one of the busiest periods in the history of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Commander Pascal Belhumeur, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

Commander Belhumeur served as commanding officer of Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Winnipeg from June 2015 to January 2016 through three operational missions and two key NATO exercises. Collaborating effectively with allies, he exhibited excellence at sea, strengthened maritime security, and ensured the ship's operational success in increasingly volatile regions in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and Black seas, and the Indian Ocean.  Through his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication, Commander Belhumeur brought great credit to himself and contributed to the Canadian Armed Forces' international reputation for excellence.

Major Patrick Lynn Bonneville, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

From 2011 to 2014, while serving as the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM) Special Operations liaison officer to the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), Major Bonneville was instrumental in developing and strengthening the relationship between these organizations. As a strategic planner, he directly contributed to the development of USSOCOM's Global Special Operations Forces Network, as well as shaping a role for CANSOFCOM's active participation.

Lieutenant-Colonel Brendan Stirling Cook, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

While deployed to Kuwait from October 2014 to April 2015 as the Long Range Patrol Detachment commander, Lieutenant-Colonel Cook led the training, deployment, activation and execution of overland Aurora combat missions that provided intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities over Iraq. Moreover, despite a gruelling tempo, he oversaw the successful implementation of an extensive array of new capabilities that provided critical support to the coalition. Lieutenant-Colonel Cook's performance was integral to mission success and enhanced the reputation of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Captain Darcy Dean Cyr, M.S.M., C.D.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

From July 2009 to September 2015, Captain Cyr served with the Air-Land Integration Cell in Kingston, Ontario, as the Canadian Armed Forces' subject matter expert in forward air control (FAC) and close air support. During this whole period, he was instrumental in the development of the Canadian FAC program from its infancy into a sustainable program that is the envy of many international partners. Captain Cyr's transformational leadership, professionalism and distinctive accomplishments have brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

Major Joseph Michel Paul d'Orsonnens, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

From October 2013 to April 2014, Major D'Orsonnens did an outstanding job as military liaison officer during the extreme and turbulent civil war in South Sudan. While deployed to the South Darfur border area, he succeeded in engaging South Sudanese military and internal security organizations in the negotiation of cross-border agreements, despite the ongoing internal conflict. Through his dedication and diplomacy, Major D'Orsonnens contributed to the success of the peace agreements and to regional economic stability, bringing great honour to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Joseph Doyle, M.S.M., C.D.
Cold Lake, Alberta

While deployed to Qatar from August 2014 to March 2015, Lieutenant-Colonel Doyle was heavily involved with the command and control of air operations in Iraq. His expertise and leadership resulted in the effective application of airpower during a particularly demanding period in one of the busiest theatres of operation worldwide. Lieutenant-Colonel Doyle's dedication and excellent interpersonal skills were pivotal to the establishment of the multinational air coalition, which blunted the advance of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

Honorary Colonel Louis Hugo Francescutti, M.S.M.
Edmonton, Alberta

Appointed honorary colonel of 1 Field Ambulance in 2011, Dr. Francescutti has greatly supported his unit and the Canadian Armed Forces. During two influential appointments as president of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (2011-2013) and president of the Canadian Medical Association (2013-2014), he promoted the Forces and solicited military input into national initiatives. Honorary Colonel Francescutti has significantly heightened the medical community's support of the CAF and their representation in activities under his purview.

Brigadier-General Charles Kevin Hyde, M.S.M. (Ret'd)
(United States Air Force)
Powder Springs, Georgia, U.S.A.

Brigadier-General Hyde served as Deputy Combined/Joint Forces Air Component commander at 1 Canadian Air Division/Canadian NORAD Region Headquarters in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Between July 2013 and August 2015, he played a key role in NORAD and in the Canadian Armed Forces' domestic operations and international missions. Brigadier-General Hyde's vast experience and exemplary performance have further enhanced Canada's role in NORAD and in the ongoing pursuit of our North American security goals.

Lieutenant-Colonel Ryan Edward Jurkowski, M.S.M., C.D.
Fredericton, New Brunswick

From October 2014 to April 2015, Lieutenant-Colonel Jurkowski was deployed to Kuwait as deputy combined joint planner within Joint Task Force-Iraq. His remarkable leadership proved essential during the transformation of an extremely fluid, hectic and high-stress headquarters. Moreover, his outstanding planning skills and execution capability led to the successful unfolding of the International Coalition Integration Conference, a key engagement opportunity for the Commanding General. Lieutenant-Colonel Jurkowski's technical acumen, vision and perseverance enhanced Canada's reputation within the coalition.

Captain Raphael MacKenzie, M.S.M.
Petawawa, Ontario

Captain MacKenzie deployed to Ukraine from August 2015 to January 2016 as Joint Task Force plans officer. In this capacity, he was able to combine all mission lines of effort into a single, achievable and unified campaign plan, which became the keystone Canadian Armed Forces document for military capacity building in Ukraine. Moreover, his cultivation of personal and professional relationships with allied forces enhanced multinational efforts. Captain MacKenzie's outstanding leadership and remarkable vision directly and positively influenced Canada's mission in Ukraine.

Colonel Joseph Jean Louis Nicolas Pilon, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

Colonel Pilon was on assignment in Haiti from July 2015 to July 2016 as chief of staff of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti and as commander of Task Force Port-au-Prince. In carrying out his duties, he demonstrated outstanding leadership while maintaining high morale during a year marked by tumultuous elections and a heightened threat level. He quickly earned the trust of the Haitian and UN authorities, and helped to strengthen Canada's reputation.

Lieutenant-Colonel Robert Michael Poisson, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

Lieutenant-Colonel Poisson has demonstrated excellent initiative and dedication in the development and implementation of the Surgeon General's Health Research Program since 2008. His efforts have been critical to the successful start-up and growth of the Canadian Institute of Military and Veterans' Health Research. Internationally, his leadership has advanced the health research agenda and has fostered strong collaboration among partners. Lieutenant-Colonel Poisson's knowledge and vision have garnered him recognition and praise from strategic partners, and brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces.

Lieutenant-Colonel Francis William Radiff, M.S.M., C.D.
Cold Lake, Alberta

From October 2014 to May 2015, Lieutenant-Colonel Radiff deployed to Qatar as Canadian target engagement authority and Air Task Force–Iraq coordination element director. His professional acumen as an experienced combat aviator resulted in countless successful combat air strikes against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. Lieutenant-Colonel Radiff's outstanding leadership, dedication and his ability to establish working relationships with his coalition colleagues quickly came to the fore in his appointment as senior coalition lead to the Combined Air and Space Operations Centre.

Chief Warrant Officer John Garry Short, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Sturgeon Falls, Ontario

Chief Warrant Officer Short deployed as Joint Task Force–Iraq chief warrant officer from May to November 2015 where his exceptional leadership proved essential in achieving unity and synchronization of effort. In particular, he nurtured a collaborative culture that enabled Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force and Royal Canadian Navy personnel to unite under a common purpose, establishing a truly joint environment and fostering collaboration. Chief Warrant Short's mission focus and steadfast personal example were an inspiration to all and directly contributed to mission success.

BRAVERY DECORATIONS

Medal of Bravery

Master Corporal Tyler W. Jordan, M.B.
Ottawa, Ontario

On October 2, 2014, Master Corporal Tyler Jordan rescued a fellow parachutist who had become entangled in high-voltage power lines during a night jump near Smith Falls, Ontario. Despite the risk posed by the live wires, Master Corporal Jordan convinced firefighters to raise him in their crane and bucket to reach the victim's side. He then cut the victim free from the wires and pulled him into the safety of the insulated bucket.

FACT SHEET ON MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS

The Meritorious Service Decorations include a military division and a civil division, with two levels each: a medal and a cross. The military division recognizes individuals for their outstanding professionalism and for bringing honour to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada. The civil division recognizes individuals who have performed an exceptional deed or an activity that brought honour to the community or to Canada.

The Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division) recognizes a military deed or activity that has been performed in an outstandingly professional manner, according to a rare high standard that brings considerable benefit or great honour to the Canadian Armed Forces. 

The Meritorious Service Medal (Military Division) recognizes a military deed or activity performed in a highly professional manner, according to a very high standard that brings benefit or honour to the Canadian Armed Forces.

These decorations are an important part of the Canadian Honours System, which recognizes excellence. Meritorious Service Decorations honour either a single achievement or an activity over a specified period. The Meritorious Service Decorations are open to both Canadians and non-Canadians.

Anyone may nominate an individual for the civil division of the Meritorious Service Decorations, while military candidates are recommended by the chief of the Defence Staff. Nominations and awards may be made posthumously, but nominations for activities that occurred prior to June 1984, the year in which the honour was first created, are not accepted.

FACT SHEET ON BRAVERY DECORATIONS

The Bravery Decorations were created in 1972. They recognize people who risk their lives and choose to defy their own instinct of survival to try to save a loved one or stranger whose life is in immediate danger.

The three levels of the Bravery Decorations reflect the degree to which the recipients put themselves at risk:

The Cross of Valour (C.V.) recognizes acts of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme peril.
The Star of Courage (S.C.) recognizes acts of conspicuous courage in circumstances of great peril.
The Medal of Bravery (M.B.) recognizes acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.

Eligibility and nominations

Anyone is free to propose the name of a person who has risked injury or death in an attempt to rescue another person. The incident need not have taken place in Canada, and the rescuer need not be Canadian, but Canadians or Canadian interests must be involved. The decorations may be awarded posthumously.

Nominations must be made within two years of the incident, or within two years after a public entity, including a court, a quasi-judicial tribunal or a coroner, has concluded its review of the circumstances surrounding the incident or act of bravery.

For more information on the Meritorious Service Decorations and the Bravery Decorations, please visit www.gg.ca/honours.

 

SOURCE Governor General of Canada

For further information: For information on the ceremony: Melanie Primeau, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-993-2569, 613-618-2691 (cell), melanie.primeau@gg.ca; For information on the recipients: Department of National Defence, Media Liaison Office, 1-866-377-0811, 613-996-2353, mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca