Question Period Note: Military Honours

Why is this Government short changing our veterans and failing to recognize their service?

• National Defence is deeply grateful for all those who have served and continue to serve our country and the people of Canada.

• That is why Canada issues awards and medals to recognize and honour the exceptional service of its military members.

• As part of the awards process, a Committee, comprised of the Chief of the Defence Staff and other members, rigorously reviews all nominations according to established criteria.

If pressed on reviewing Private Larochelle’s case:

• The system for awarding national honours is designed to be insulated from political influence and public pressure.

• Nominations for military honours and awards are initiated by the candidate’s chain of command, supported by the commanding officer, and reviewed by the chain of command.

• National Defence conducted an in-depth review of each of the 20 Stars of Military Valour awarded in relation to the Afghanistan campaign.

• The review committee found that the process was fair and consistent, that none should have received a different decoration, and that all awards respected the intent and criteria for the Star of Military Valour.

• We encourage all Canadians to reflect and celebrate each of 20 incredible recipients of the Star of Military Valour, and the many others Canadians who were recognized for gallantry and devotion to duty in that campaign.

• They are the worthy successors to generations of Canadians who have shown their mettle in combat in various conflicts around the word in the last 150 years.

Quick Facts

Pte. Jess Larochelle

• Awarded the Star of Military Valour in 2007.

• His case was part of a broader, rigorous review in 2012 to ensure consistency across awards.

Erin O’Toole’s Unanimous Consent Motion

• Erin O’Toole (CPC) presented a unanimous consent motion on June 17, 2022, calling for the Government to establish an independent review body to investigate instances of errors or omission in the awarding of military honours, due racism or other forms of intolerance in the past.

• This included a call for a review of Pte. Larcochelle’s case, and for him to be elevated to the Canadian Victoria Cross should the evidence be sufficient.

• He also called for the Government to establish an independent review body to investigate instances of errors or omission in the awarding of military honours, due racism or other forms of intolerance in the past.

• The motion was not adopted.

Canadian Forces Decorations Advisory Committee

• Chair: Chief of the Defence Staff

• Members:

  • Vice Chief of the Defence Staff

  • Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy

  • Commander of the Canadian Army

  • Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force

  • Representative for the Governor General

Responsible Principals: Military Personnel Command