Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 148, Number 45: GOVERNMENT HOUSE

November 8, 2014

MERITORIOUS SERVICE DECORATIONS

His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, on the recommendation of the Chief of the Defence Staff, has awarded Meritorious Service Decorations (Military Division) as follows:

Meritorious Service Cross
(Military Division)

LIEUTENANT GENERAL DANIEL P. BOLGER, M.S.C.
(United States Army)
Aurora, Illinois, United States of America

As commander of the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan from November 2011 to April 2013, Lieutenant General Bolger was a steadfast supporter of Canada's mission objectives. Leading over 4 000 coalition personnel and 13 000 contractors, he endorsed many Canadian initiatives that significantly enhanced training effectiveness at key Afghan institutions. Lieutenant General Bolger's leadership and encouragement were critical to the success of the Canadian mission and strengthened the bond between Canada and the United States of America.

MAJOR-GENERAL DEAN JAMES MILNER, O.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Major-General Milner was deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan, as both the commander of the Canadian Contribution to the Training Mission and the commanding general of the NATO Training Mission from May 2013 to March 2014. His character, leadership and strategic vision contributed to the development of an autonomous and sustainable Afghan security force in the aftermath of the coalition force departure and ensured a successful end to Canada's mission in Afghanistan. Major-General Milner was a consummate professional and an exceptional ambassador for Canada.

This is the second Meritorious Service Cross awarded to Major-General Milner.

WARRANT OFFICER JOSEPH CLAUDE CAMILLE PELLETIER, M.S.C., C.D.
Edmundston, New Brunswick

Warrant Officer Pelletier demonstrated leadership, professionalism, initiative and dedication during the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12, 2010. He provided life-saving first aid to several local nationals immediately following the earthquake and subsequently organized the evacuation of over 4 000 Canadian citizens. He also delivered crucial assistance to Canadian embassy staff and to governmental and non-governmental aid specialists coordinating the Canadian relief effort. Warrant Officer Pelletier's decisive actions helped restore calm in Haiti.

Meritorious Service Medal
(Military Division)

BRIGADIER-GENERAL TODD NELSON BALFE, M.S.M., C.D.
Chatham, New Brunswick

Brigadier-General Balfe was deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan, as the deputy to the Chief of Staff of Communications for the International Security Assistance Force from May 2013 to March 2014. Utilizing detailed media analysis, and optimizing personnel and resources, he greatly improved the information flow to his commanders, which provided them with a more in-depth understanding of Afghan culture. He also initiated the Gender Cross-Functional Assessment Team, which promoted a gender advocacy strategy for the country. With his cultural sensitivity and professional acumen, Brigadier-General Balfe brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER DANIEL JOSEPH LAURENDAN BRISSETTE, M.S.M., C.D.
Petawawa, Ontario

From April 2012 to April 2013, Chief Warrant Officer Brissette was deployed to the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan. As sergeant-major of the Deputy Commanding General — Operations organization, he mentored a key network of senior noncommissioned members that provided guidance to over 16 000 personnel dispersed throughout the country. Chief Warrant Officer Brissette established himself as an eminent ambassador for Canada and set an impressive standard of leadership for all personnel.

This is the second Meritorious Service Medal awarded to Chief Warrant Officer Brissette.

CHIEF PETTY OFFICER 1st CLASS ROBERT LEE BROWN, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Sackville, New Brunswick

From July 2011 to July 2012, Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Brown rose quickly through several senior appointments within the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan. He established himself as a strong influence within the Canadian contingent and provided valuable support to Afghan police development. Furthermore, his leadership, composure and strength under fire were critical to mounting an effective response to a large insurgent attack on Kabul. Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Brown's efforts significantly enhanced the reputation of the Canadian Armed Forces.

CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER MARTIN JOSEPH BRUNO COLBERT, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Sainte-Foy, Quebec

From October 2012 to June 2013, Chief Warrant Officer Colbert did an extraordinary job as sergeant-major of the Canadian Contribution to the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan. Through his leadership, he ensured that over 900 Canadian soldiers remained motivated, disciplined and focused, despite the difficult and complex conditions under which they were working. By providing advice to the command team and by training Canadian and foreign subordinates, Chief Warrant Officer Colbert made a significant contribution to the mission's success.

COLONEL GORDON DAVID CORBOULD, M.S.M., C.D.
Balve, Germany

Colonel Corbould was deployed to Bagram, Afghanistan, as the deputy commanding general of Coalition Effects and Transitions for Combined Joint Task Force 101, in Regional Command–East, from February 2013 to February 2014. His leadership and strategic vision engineered the simultaneous reduction and removal of existing equipment and infrastructure at NATO bases across eastern Afghanistan. He adeptly led a large multinational force with energy and professionalism, which brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

This is the second Meritorious Service Medal awarded to Colonel Corbould.

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JOHN STANLEY FIFE, M.S.M., C.D.
Iserlohn, Germany

Lieutenant-Colonel Fife was deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan, as commander of the Coalition's Consolidated Fielding Centre Training Advisory Group from July 2013 to March 2014. His leadership and mentorship significantly contributed to the creation and future sustainment of the Afghan National Army. By applying his valuable training and experience, he facilitated the operational transition between the Canadian Armed Forces and the Army while establishing the critical capabilities for its future development. LieutenantColonel Fife's achievements brought great honour to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

COLONEL PAUL TIMOTHY GODDARD, M.S.M., C.D.
Winnipeg, Manitoba

From July 2010 to April 2013, Colonel Goddard was the main architect of the NATO Flying Training Centre program delivery recovery. This program had been on the brink of collapse, with no hope of delivering the anticipated results. Colonel Goddard guided his staff with exemplary corporate and leadership skills, as well as a firm commitment to the renewal of the program. Their efforts resulted in a 35 per cent increase in productivity through more efficient training and through the synchronization of ground, simulation and flying elements.

LIEUTENANT-COMMANDER CHRISTOPHER DANIEL HOLLAND, M.S.M., C.D.
Peterborough, Ontario

Lieutenant-Commander Holland displayed dedication and selfless effort as the executive officer of Her Majesty's Canadian Ship Victoria from July 2010 through September 2012. He was challenged with the numerous difficult and high-profile milestones of completing the submarine's extended docking work period, Tiered Readiness Program, High Readiness Work-ups, and Weapons Certification Program. With expert management and oversight of multiple contractors, and under scrutiny by the national press, Lieutenant-Commander Holland was instrumental in the delivery of a submarine capability for the Canadian Armed Forces.

MAJOR MOHAMED-ALI LAAOUAN, M.S.M., C.D.
Montréal, Quebec

From July 2011 to April 2012, Major Laaouan did a remarkable job as the officer in charge of the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Halifax during a period of significant changes, when the operational rhythm was very fast-paced. He ensured the transfer of tasks from the Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre in Newfoundland and Labrador to his organization while maintaining exceptional search and rescue coverage. Major Laaouan's leadership and work ethic were essential to the success of this complex undertaking.

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JOSEPH CHRISTIAN GUY LEBLANC, M.S.M., C.D.
Joliette, Quebec

CORPORAL CLINTON JEFFREY LEWIS, M.S.M., C.D.
Hamilton, Ontario

WARRANT OFFICER MICHAEL DAVID MAR, M.S.M., C.D.
Truro, Nova Scotia

CAPTAIN TREVOR MARK PELLERIN, M.S.M., C.D.
Halifax, Nova Scotia

On March 27, 2012, despite gale force winds, 400-foot altitude ceilings, snow squalls, and five- to eight-metre waves, the crew of Rescue 908 was involved in a perilous night mission to recover survivors from the S/V Tabasco II, foundering in the stormy North Atlantic, south of Nova Scotia. First-officer Lieutenant-Colonel Leblanc took charge of all flight functions, including aircraft navigation and survivor spotting, allowing his aircraft commander to concentrate on managing crew resources while flying in the abysmal conditions. Aircraft commander-Captain Pellerin placed the helicopter in a 70-foot hover in order for his crew to investigate the life raft, and subsequently moved the aircraft to the sailboat to effect the rescue. Flight-engineer Corporal Lewis, previously injured during hoist operations, identified an unconventional method to keep the helicopter in position over the vessel, which proved instrumental in the safe completion of the mission. As replacement flight engineer following Corporal Lewis' injury, Warrant Officer Mar immediately stepped in to operate the safe hoist by placing the SAR Technicians on board the raft and sailing vessel, and safely recovering five persons, all while battling gale-force winds. The crew of Rescue 908 demonstrated exemplary teamwork, reflecting great honour to themselves and to the Canadian Armed Forces.

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL SEAN PATRICK LEWIS, M.S.M., C.D.
Trenton, Ontario

As a senior advisor to the Afghan Border Police from June 2012 to July 2013, Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis played an essential role in Canada's contribution to the NATO Training Mission. He mentored the police force's senior commanders, and helped them move the nascent organization toward assuming its full security responsibilities. Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis' leadership and knowledge contributed to enhancing the capabilities of the Afghan Border Police.

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL STEPHEN MACDONALD, M.S.M., C.D.
Sydney, Nova Scotia

While deployed to the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan from October 2012 to July 2013, Lieutenant-Colonel MacDonald was the chief of staff of the Joint Task Force Afghanistan and the commanding officer of the National Command and Support Element. He was able to maintain situational awareness of over 900 widely dispersed Canadian personnel for whom he ensured the proper employment, protection, equipment and support in order for them to excel at their jobs. Lieutenant-Colonel MacDonald's leadership and operational vision were integral to Canada's success in Afghanistan.

CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER GORDON WILLIAM FLOYD MORRISON, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

As the command sergeant-major of the Consolidated Fielding Centre in Afghanistan from June 2012 to July 2013, Chief Warrant Officer Morrison used his military knowledge and personnel management abilities to optimize the deployment of 44 new Afghan National Army battalions. His leadership moulded multinational military contingents, and unequivocally contributed to improving the living and working conditions for both Afghan and coalition personnel. From personally mentoring soldiers to coordinating large-scale infrastructure projects, he made several lasting contributions to the Afghan National Army's development, which brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

LIEUTENANT(N) JOSEPH JOCELYN NADEAU, M.S.M., C.D.
Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier, Quebec

While posted to Haiti in 2009, Lieutenant Nadeau worked tirelessly to improve the living conditions of the Haitian people and, in particular, to help in the renovation and expansion of a school. Moreover, he ensured the acquisition and delivery of several tons of school supplies. Lieutenant Nadeau's generous actions, which went beyond his military responsibilities, brought great credit to Canada.

MAJOR ROBIN KENT NICKERSON, M.S.M., C.D.
Sydney, Nova Scotia

From April to October 2013, Major Nickerson shepherded an unprecedented period of military co-operation between Jordan and Canada. He organized programming from the Canadian government's Global Partnership Program and Global Peace and Security Fund, and furthered military training co-operation opportunities by coordinating with the United States Central Command forward deployments. Major Nickerson's dedication and professionalism greatly enhanced Canada's reputation as a model of excellence in building international partnerships.

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JAMES ROBERT OSTLER, M.S.M., C.D.
Cochrane, Ontario

From September 2011 to August 2012, Lieutenant-Colonel Ostler was deployed to the West Bank as deputy commander of Canada's contingent to Palestinian Authority security sector reform. Showing exceptional diplomacy, he worked to rekindle strategic relationships between Canada and the Palestinian Authority, and helped secure significant advances in the professionalization of Palestinian Authority security forces. Lieutenant-Colonel Ostler's leadership and efforts contributed to reinforcing Canada's position as a trusted and important collaborator in the Middle East peace process.

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL ROCH PELLETIER, M.S.M., C.D.
Valcartier, Quebec

As deputy commander of the Canadian Contribution to the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan, from October 2012 to July 2013, Lieutenant-Colonel Pelletier provided leadership to over 900 Canadian soldiers in 30 different locations throughout the country's three distinct regions. Moreover, he drew up a detailed plan for the withdrawal of personnel, while ensuring that Canadian resources were used to their full potential and that Canada remained at the forefront of the mission. Lieutenant-Colonel Pelletier's efficiency made an enormous contribution to Canada's operational success in Afghanistan.

CAPTAIN(N) RONALD GERALD PUMPHREY, M.S.M., C.D.
Bath, New Brunswick

Captain Pumphrey was deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan, as the deputy commander of the Ministerial Advisory Group for the Afghan Ministry of the Interior from May 2013 to March 2014. He carefully directed a large multinational staff of military and civilian personnel by coordinating senior staff activities, by identifying impeding political sensitivities, and by ensuring that Afghan projects were adequately funded. Captain Pumphrey's efforts were fundamental in securing a stable future for Afghanistan.

WARRANT OFFICER PASQUALINO RIZZO, M.S.M., C.D.
Montréal, Quebec

From 2001 to 2013, Warrant Officer Rizzo developed and implemented the Preventing Harassment and Abuse through Successful Education (PHASE) program, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to the Junior Canadian Rangers. He worked tirelessly with other government and non-government partners in his efforts to champion this program. Warrant Officer Rizzo's dedication and community sensitivity contributed to the delivery of a very successful healthy living program that will impact thousands of northern youth for years to come.

COLONEL JOSEPH ALBERT PAUL PIERRE ST-CYR, M.S.M., C.D.
Montréal, Quebec

From July 2012 to July 2013, Colonel St-Cyr was posted to the position of chief of staff of the military contingent of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti. His leadership allowed the team at the multinational headquarters to become cohesive; the team proved effective on countless occasions during national disasters and in support of election planning. Colonel St-Cyr's influence also exceeded his military role and contributed greatly to the progress of several important initiatives.

This is the second Meritorious Service Medal awarded to Colonel St-Cyr.

CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER ROBERT JOSEPH THOMPSON, M.S.M., C.D.
Halifax, Nova Scotia

Chief Warrant Officer Thompson was deployed to the Kabul Military Training Centre from July 2012 to June 2013, both as the regimental sergeant-major of the Training Advisory Group and the Canadian regimental sergeant-major. He provided skillful advice on national issues while simultaneously mentoring his Afghan counterpart. His leadership and influence were felt throughout the organization as he worked tirelessly to engage Afghan personnel, civilian contractors and all members of the multinational military contingent. His performance brought honour to the Canadian Armed Forces and to Canada.

CAPTAIN(N) ANGUS IAN TOPSHEE, M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario

Captain Topshee's performance, as director of operations for the Rim of the Pacific Exercise 2012, was critical to the successful coordination of 40 warships, six submarines, over 200 aircraft and more than 25 000 multinational personnel. His intellect and professionalism proved essential to enhancing interoperability among 22 participating nations and, ultimately, to the exercise's resounding success. Captain Topshee's performance in this high-profile position brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces.

COLONEL PETER JOSEPH WILLIAMS, M.S.M., C.D.
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

While deployed to the Kabul Military Training Centre from June 2012 to June 2013, Colonel Williams excelled as both the commanding officer of the Training Advisory Group and as a mentor to the Centre's Afghan commander. After extensive analysis of the issues surrounding the rapidly decreasing coalition force, he focused his team's efforts on areas that would effectively move the Kabul Military Training Centre towards autonomy. Colonel Williams' leadership and ingenuity were integral to the Centre's operational effectiveness, and brought great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces.

EMMANUELLE SAJOUS
Deputy Secretary and Deputy Herald Chancellor

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