More than a pat on the back

In my haste to post about the Canadian valour decorations, I neglected to draw attention to additional recognitions bestowed upon Canadian Forces members for exemplary service.

Twenty-four Canadian soldiers received Mentions in Dispatches:

The Mention in Dispatches was created to recognize members of the Canadian Forces on active service and other individuals working with or in conjunction with the Canadian Forces for valiant conduct, devotion to duty or other distinguished service. Recipients are entitled to wear a bronze oak leaf on the appropriate campaign or service medal ribbon.

Of particular significance is the posthumous award of a Mention in Dispatches to Private Kevin Dallaire, may he rest in peace.

The Governor General also awarded six Meritorious Service Crosses and twenty-one Meritorious Service Medals:

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 Forces and to Canada.

Of special note is the posthumous award of a Meritorious Service Medal to Capt Nichola Goddard, may she also rest in peace.

These distinctions offered to grieving family and friends in memory of their loved ones will not replace the dead, but hopefully they will serve as a reminder to all that such selfless sacrifice was not in vain. Both the living and deceased awardees serve as an example to others, which is one of the primary reasons military decorations exists in the first place.

Special congratulations must also go from this corner to a couple of old classmates: Maj Kirk Gallinger, M.S.M, C.D., and Maj Nick Grimshaw, M.S.M, C.D. Well done, gents.