Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 147, Number 41: GOVERNMENT HOUSE
October 12, 2013
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 Decorations
(Military Division)
MAJOR-GENERAL STUART BEARE, C.M.M., M.S.C., M.S.M., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario
As the deputy commander of the military police within the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan from June 2010 to July 2011, Major-General Beare led the largest build-up of police forces in the mission’s history. Working tirelessly with his Afghan counterparts and commanding a diverse, multinational organization, he built a solid foundation for the Afghan National Police and positioned the organization for ongoing success. Major-General Beare’s leadership and strategic vision had a profound and lasting impact on the success of the mission.
BRIGADIER-GENERAL MICHAEL DAY, O.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.
Ottawa, Ontario
From April 2011 to May 2012, Brigadier-General Day excelled as commander of the Canadian contribution to the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan, while simultaneously occupying key leadership positions within the NATO command structure. In addition to overseeing the successful stand-up of the Canadian contingent, he was critical in shaping the mission’s overall approach during a time of major strategic transformation. Brigadier-General Day’s leadership and vision had a profound impact on the Afghan National Security Forces’ transition to self-sufficiency.
MAJOR-GENERAL JAMES ROBERT FERRON, O.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.
Kingston, Ontario
From May 2012 to May 2013, Major-General Ferron had provided his leadership to nearly 4 000 coalition personnel and 13 000 contractors in Afghanistan. With vision and insight as deputy commanding general of the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan, he ensured the successful introduction of significant new capabilities, and the effective training and equipping of over 350 000 Afghan National Security Forces. Major-General Ferron’s performance set the standard for Canadian, coalition and Afghan personnel, and was critical to the success of the mission.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL JAMES TERRY, M.S.C. (UNITED STATES ARMY)
Jasper, Georgia, United States of America
Lieutenant General Terry, of the United States Army, provided exceptional leadership and vision as the commanding general of Regional Command (South) in Afghanistan from November 2010 to October 2011. His support for Canada’s mission and Canadian soldiers on the ground was critical to the Canadian Forces’ operational success. A steadfast ally, Lieutenant General Terry widely promoted the significance of the Canadian contribution, highlighting its role in bringing stability to Afghanistan and helping maintain the Canadian Forces’ legacy there.
LIEUTENANT-GENERAL GUY ROBERT THIBAULT, C.M.M., M.S.C., C.D.
Comox, British Columbia
As chairman of the Inter-American Defense Board (IADB) since June 2010, Lieutenant-General Thibault has demonstrated energy, enthusiasm and diplomatic skill in leading this complex and diverse multilateral group. He is lauded for his interpersonal skills, his sensitivity to national differences of opinion, and his intellectual ability to astutely frame and convincingly articulate a vision for the reform and evolution of the IADB. His efforts have significantly added to Canada’s esteem within the board and to the advancement of Canada’s engagement toward the Americas.
Meritorious Service Medal
(Military Division)
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL SUZANNE MARIE BAILEY, M.S.M., C.D.
Zweibrucken, Germany
Lieutenant-Colonel Bailey’s leadership and creative initiative were instrumental in developing and implementing the Road to Mental Readiness program. As the chair of the Mental Health Education Advisory Committee, she also sits on the NATO Working Group on mental health education. She has built strong relationships with such organizations as the Mental Health Commission of Canada to share her knowledge and to help personnel improve their mental resiliency. Lieutenant-Colonel Bailey’s dedication and passion brought great honour to the Canadian Armed Forces.
CHIEF PETTY OFFICER 2ND CLASS CHRISTOPHER JAMES BLONDE, M.S.M., C.D.
Woodstock, Ontario
As chief engineer since April 2010, Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class Blonde has been the driving force behind the technically demanding reactivation of HMCS Windsor. His organization skills, technical expertise and proactive interaction with both local and national engineering agencies contributed to successfully achieving key milestones in the submarine’s program. His leadership and dedication during periods of change with an unpredictable and strategically important program has brought credit to the Canadian Armed Forces.
MAJOR JOSEPH ÉRIC STÉPHANE BRIAND, M.S.M., C.D.
LaSalle, Quebec
Major Briand commanded a team of mentors deployed to Afghanistan from November 2010 to June 2011, where he distinguished himself by his exceptional strategic acumen. With extraordinary initiative, he professionalized the efforts of the Afghan National Army on several occasions, both while stationed in garrison and in the field. Major Briand’s keen planning sense, resilience and composure contributed greatly to the operational success of the coalition forces.
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER GORDEN ROY CAVANAGH, M.S.M., C.D.
Edmonton, Alberta
As task force sergeant-major from March 2011 to February 2012, Chief Warrant Officer Cavanagh had a profound impact on the Canadian contribution to the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan. He developed strong relationships with other nations, maintained a detailed understanding of the morale, welfare and leadership climate, and created a common sense of purpose within the widely dispersed task force. Chief Warrant Officer Cavanagh’s performance and leadership were critical to the success of this renascent mission.
MAJOR DEREK JOHN CHENETTE, M.S.M., C.D.
St. Albert, Alberta
While deployed to Afghanistan from August 2011 to February 2012, Major Chenette excelled as commanding officer of the Regional Military Training Centre-North. He overcame the challenges of being stationed 400 kilometres from NATO headquarters, at the end of complex lines of communication, and delivered an exceptional mentoring program focused on empowering non-commissioned officers and encouraging individual accountability. Drawing praise from NATO leadership, Major Chenette’s unit was considered one of the most effective in the country, bringing great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces.
MAJOR ADAM RICHARD CYBANSKI, M.S.M., C.D.
Kemptville, Ontario
Since 2009, Major Cybanski has demonstrated exceptional dedication to developing innovative flight safety processes. His accomplishments in flight-path reconstruction and visualization have greatly enhanced Canada’s reputation as a leader in the field of flight safety, and will serve the interest of our flight safety program and the aviation communities for years to come. Major Cybanski’s unassailable logic and unmatched expertise have been recognized at the national and international levels, and have brought great honour to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GUY DOIRON, M.S.M., C.D.
Saint-Avold, France
As commander of the Materiel Disposal Unit from May to December 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Doiron greatly contributed to the success of the Mission Transition Task Force. Responsible for establishing disposal capacity, he transformed a group of soldiers and civilians into an effective unit that maintained complete control over all aspects of disposal. Lieutenant-Colonel Doiron’s leadership and knowledge facilitated the end of Canada’s combat mission in Afghanistan.
PETTY OFFICER 2ND CLASS MICHÈLE DUMARESQ-OUELLET, M.S.M.
Montréal, Quebec
Petty Officer 2nd Class Dumaresq-Ouellet contributed to the success of operations of HMCS Toronto from 2008 to 2010. She served as senior electronic sensor operator, a position that went beyond the requirements of her rank and qualifications, and demonstrated remarkable innovation in developing new ship-to-shore warfare tactics. Petty Officer 2nd Class Dumaresq-Ouellet’s leadership and professionalism were essential to the ship’s operational success and brought honour to the Canadian Forces.
HONORARY COLONEL DENNIS MICHAEL ERKER, M.S.M.
Edmonton, Alberta
Since 2009, Honorary Colonel Erker has demonstrated leadership and unwavering support in caring for the well-being of Canadian Armed Forces members as the honorary colonel of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment. His efforts to promote relationships between the military and civilian communities are commendable. Honorary Colonel Erker has also been the driving force behind the creation of Valour Place, Canada’s second military support home for injured serving Canadian Armed Forces members and veterans, as well as members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
HONORARY CAPTAIN(N) THE HONOURABLE MYRA AVA FREEMAN, C.M., O.N.S., M.S.M.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Since her appointment in 2003, Honorary Captain(N) Freeman has demonstrated uncompromising loyalty to the Royal Canadian Navy, as well as initiative and leadership in establishing the Halifax-based Community Leadership Advisory Council in 2007. Through her efforts and dedication she has fostered a tremendous spirit of collaboration between the Navy and the people of Nova Scotia. Her actions have brought great credit to the Canadian Forces, and have promoted a strong sense of pride among the citizenry for the sacrifices and accomplishments of members serving in the Atlantic region.
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER DAPHNE VIOLA GERMAIN, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Chief Warrant Officer Germain was deployed to Italy from September to November 2011 as part of Canada’s contribution to NATO operations in Libya. She was a key contributor to translating the commander’s strategy into operational reality. Her personal engagement with all personnel was instrumental in maintaining morale and focus, particularly during the rapid transition from high-tempo operations to the end of the mission. A positive role model and ambassador for Canada, Chief Warrant Officer Germain had a tangible impact on mission success and helped Canada leave a positive legacy.
MAJOR JAY LYMAN INDEWEY, M.S.M., C.D.
Georgetown, Prince Edward Island
Major Indewey demonstrated leadership and professionalism as operations officer of the Joint Task Force National Support Element from October 2009 to May 2010. He ensured the provision of exceptional combat service support to Canadian and coalition forces in Afghanistan. In addition, he enabled the mentoring of and partnering with the combat service support kandak of the Afghan National Army. Major Indewey’s remarkable efforts improved the capabilities of the Afghan National Army and contributed directly to operational success in Afghanistan.
COLONEL DEREK WILLIAM JOYCE, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Edmonton, Alberta
As commander of Task Force Libeccio from August to November 2011, Colonel Joyce was critical to the success of Canada’s contribution to NATO operations in Libya. He forged geographically dispersed and functionally distinct units into an effective fighting force that excelled during high-intensity operations. Moreover, he championed the introduction of new capabilities that positioned the Canadian Forces for success during this and future missions. Operating in a high-profile international environment, Colonel Joyce brought great credit to Canada.
WARRANT OFFICER ALLAN MARK KENDALL, M.S.M., C.D.
Collingwood, Ontario
On January 10, 2011, Warrant Officer Kendall rescued a suicidal woman who had wandered out onto thin ice on the Severn River, at Sandy Lake, Ontario. Without regard for his own safety, he went out onto the ice to secure the woman, which allowed his Ranger team to haul them both safely back to shore. Warrant Officer Kendall’s quick thinking brought great credit to the Canadian Rangers and to the Canadian Armed Forces.
MAJOR DENE LEONARD, M.S.M. (UNITED STATES ARMY)
Lancaster, Pennsylvania, United States of America
Major Leonard, of the United States Army, demonstrated leadership, initiative and professionalism as the Joint Task Force Afghanistan intelligence planner from August 2010 to August 2011. The driving force behind the integration of several American capabilities, he constantly sought means to increase the operational effectiveness of intelligence operations. Major Leonard’s ability to synchronize the efforts of Canadian, American and Afghan intelligence staffs enabled the targeted pursuit of insurgents and contributed directly to operational success.
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL YANNICK LEMIEUX, M.S.M., C.D.
Joliette, Quebec
Lieutenant-Colonel Lemieux was deployed to Afghanistan as part of the Mission Transition Task Force from July to December 2011. As senior communications advisor and commander of Group Headquarters and Signal Squadron, he coordinated the delivery of impeccable communications support and developed an exemplary reduction plan. His leadership, determination and knowledge ensured that the closure of the Canadian communications infrastructure went smoothly while maintaining operational effectiveness during the process.
MAJOR JAY ADAM MACKEEN, M.S.M., C.D.
Pointe-Claire, Quebec
As the chief of staff of the Consolidated Fielding Centre from May 2011 to February 2012, Major MacKeen excelled while entrusted with increased responsibilities, and was central to the fielding of 41 new Afghan National Army units. Providing superb leadership to Canadian, coalition and Afghanistan personnel, he developed processes that touched on all aspects of operations while providing outstanding mentorship to an Afghan colonel. Major MacKeen’s efforts dramatically improved the centre’s operational effectiveness and enhanced Canada’s reputation within NATO.
MAJOR STEPHEN NOEL, M.S.M., C.D.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
As officer commanding India Company from May to December 2010, Major Noel distinguished himself as a flexible and effective combat leader. Initially deployed to Kandahar City, his company conducted ongoing patrols, which improved stability and enabled American forces to seamlessly assume security responsibilities. Following their re-assignment to volatile Nakhonay, his soldiers excelled in their new role, and helped reduce incidents of violence and intimidation towards villagers. Major Noel’s front line leadership was critical to the Canadian Forces’ operational success in Afghanistan.
COLONEL PAUL ORMSBY, O.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Toronto, Ontario
From April to August 2011, Colonel Ormsby was deployed to Italy in support of NATO operations in Libya. As commander of the nascent Task Force Naples, and as senior Canadian representative within the NATO contingent, he was critical in augmenting the command and control link between NATO forces abroad and Canadian leadership at home. Demonstrating leadership and diplomacy, Colonel Ormsby established key deployed capabilities, built strong relationships with Canadian allies and ensured mission success.
COMMANDER BRADLEY ALAN PEATS, M.S.M., C.D.
Victoria, British Columbia
As commanding officer of HMCS Vancouver from August to December 2011, Commander Peats ensured his ship’s maximum effectiveness during NATO operations in the Mediterranean. Initially supporting international efforts in Libya before moving east to conduct counter-terrorism operations, he established HMCS Vancouver as a leading ship within the NATO contingents. Commander Peats’ leadership and diplomatic command ensured the ship’s operational success, bringing credit to Canada and supporting our NATO allies.
COLONEL JOSEPH PAUL ALAIN PELLETIER, M.S.M., C.D.
La Pocatière, Quebec
From March to September 2011, Colonel Pelletier served as air component commander of Operation MOBILE, Canada’s contribution to NATO’s military operation in Libya. An experienced officer, he took initiative from the outset of the mission and reviewed the rules of engagement, the Chief of the Defence Staff’s targeting directives and other instructions to optimize the use of force throughout the mission. Colonel Pelletier’s leadership and the specific guidelines that he introduced helped to ensure the operational and tactical success of the mission.
MASTER WARRANT OFFICER ANTHONY CARL PETTIPAS, M.S.M., C.D.
Fredericton, New Brunswick
From May to November 2011, Master Warrant Officer Pettipas was deployed to Italy as part of Canada’s contribution to the NATO mission to protect the people of Libya. As Sicily Air Wing chief warrant officer, he was a champion of morale and welfare, and worked tirelessly to establish a camp that was not only functional but adequate. Master Warrant Officer Pettipas was frequently sought out by personnel throughout the Air Wing for his experienced, knowledgeable and operationally focussed counsel, which contributed directly to operational success.
MASTER CORPORAL MONTGOMERY PATRICK ROBSON, M.S.M., C.D.
St. Albert, Alberta
Master Corporal Robson consistently demonstrated outstanding professionalism in his role as the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Regimental Veterans Care non-commissioned officer from 2006 to 2011. With great tact, he helped ease the suffering of injured soldiers and their families by providing them with constant and compassionate support. Through his mentorship and encouragement, numerous soldiers successfully returned to work. Despite the stress of this task, Master Corporal Robson remained unwavering in his dedication to those he served, bringing great credit to the Canadian Forces.
LIEUTENANT-COLONEL DAVID DONALD ROSS, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Russell, Ontario
From July to December 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Ross deployed to Afghanistan with the Mission Transition Task Force. As assistant chief of staff operations, he orchestrated the Canadian Armed Forces’ largest mission closure in recent history. His leadership, knowledge and ability to synchronize multiple lines of effort were instrumental in keeping operations running smoothly despite the hectic environment. Lieutenant-Colonel Ross’ performance contributed to the successful closure of Canada’s combat mission in Afghanistan.
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER CHRISTOPHER PAUL RUSK, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Brampton, Ontario
From January 2010 to February 2011, Chief Warrant Officer Rusk excelled as regimental sergeant-major of three organizations. Initially deployed with the Provincial Reconstruction Team, he quickly transitioned to a mentoring role and prepared an infantry kandak for combat, before moving to the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan to help lay the foundation for Afghan National Police development. Whether in the classroom, at headquarters, or on the battlefield, Chief Warrant Officer Rusk distinguished himself as an exceptional soldier and dynamic leader.
MAJOR CAROL DIANE SAWATZKY, M.S.M., C.D.
Kemptville, Ontario
From April to November 2011, Major Sawatzky deployed to Afghanistan as the engineer regiment infrastructure officer within the Mission Transition Task Force. She developed and executed a plan that ensured the smooth transfer of over 250 buildings and other infrastructure from Canada to its allies. Facing intense pressure from other nations, Major Sawatzky demonstrated commendable leadership and diplomatic abilities, which contributed to both the successful closure of Canada’s combat mission in Afghanistan and to Canada’s reputation for professionalism and international co-operation.
CHIEF PETTY OFFICER 1ST CLASS ALISTAIR SKINNER, M.S.M., C.D.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
As coxswain aboard HMCS Charlottetown from March to August 2011, Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Skinner was a critical component of the ship’s contribution to NATO operations in Libya. He served as the conduit between the command team and the ship’s company, maintaining the crew’s morale and focus, and ensuring that they performed effectively during dangerous and demanding operations. Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Skinner’s efforts contributed to the ship’s fighting spirit and the crew’s operational success.
COMMANDER CRAIG TROY SKJERPEN, M.S.M., C.D.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
As commanding officer of HMCS Charlottetown from March to August 2011, Commander Skjerpen led Canada’s maritime contribution to the NATO mission to protect the people of Libya. An outstanding and decisive leader, he quickly established his ship as an aggressive presence off the coast, providing direct support to the besieged city of Misratah. Commander Skjerpen’s leadership, diplomacy and adaptability contributed directly to the mission’s success, helping the city resist all attempts at occupation.
CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER ANTHONY JAMES SLACK, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Harrowsmith, Ontario
As regimental sergeant-major of the Consolidated Fielding Centre from July 2011 to July 2012, Chief Warrant Officer Slack successfully trained and equipped over 21 000 Afghan soldiers. Most notably, he created a mentoring program that was vital to the empowerment and educational growth of senior non-commissioned officers. Chief Warrant Officer Slack’s efforts supported the fielding of 70 newly formed Afghan National Army units, bringing great credit to the Canadian Armed Forces.
WARRANT OFFICER GREGORY ALLAN SMIT, S.C., M.S.M., C.D.
Pickering, Ontario
On August 20, 2011, Warrant Officer Smit was instrumental in the rescue of the survivors from First Air Flight 6560, during Operation NANOOK 2011. He assumed control of the crash scene, provided medical assistance, directed the evacuation of survivors, and preserved and secured the crash site. Warrant Officer Smit’s actions prevented further loss of life among the survivors, while demonstrating the highest standards of skill and professionalism.
CHIEF PETTY OFFICER 1ST CLASS ROBERT STEPHEN SPINELLI, M.M.M., M.S.M., C.D.
Victoria, British Columbia
As coxswain aboard HMCS Vancouver from July 2011 to January 2012, Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Spinelli contributed to operational success during two consecutive missions in the Mediterranean. A highly visible leader whose influence was felt throughout the ship, he balanced his twin responsibilities of fostering morale, while upholding good order and discipline. Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Spinelli set an example for the ship’s company to emulate and contributed to their maximum effectiveness during a challenging deployment.
CAPTAIN(N) KENNETH ROBERT STEWART, M.S.M., C.D.
Kingston, Ontario
As the Canadian senior national representative within Headquarters United States Central Command from May 2006 to July 2010, Captain(N) Stewart, as a leader of the Canadian Liaison Office, ensured unprecedented access and influence for Canada within this extremely dynamic headquarters. Notably, his work was critical to securing the United States’ support for the Manley Report requirements, and for Canadian operations in Afghanistan. Captain(N) Stewart’s diplomacy and unrelenting efforts strengthened Canadian–American relations, and brought tremendous benefit to Canadian Forces operations.
EMMANUELLE SAJOUS
Deputy Secretary and
Deputy Herald Chancellor
[41-1-o]