Investiture Ceremony of the Order of Military Merit

November 6, 2024

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Welcome to Rideau Hall and to this presentation of the Order of Military Merit.

I want to acknowledge that we are gathered on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe people.

This land acknowledgement is part of the full national history of Canada, which includes the stories of courageous Indigenous peoples who have served in the Canadian Armed Forces.

It is Veterans week.

As commander-in-chief, I want to take a moment to pay tribute to our veterans.

Recently in Jasper, Alberta, I visited the monument dedicated to Canadian soldiers who fell during the Korean War.

And a few months ago, I visited the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial in Northern France.

I was already deeply grateful to our veterans and to all members of the Forces, but during these visits, I became even more impacted by the magnitude of military sacrifice.

And by the utmost importance of your work.

Your work is vital, not only in conflicts but also in the impressive variety of roles you undertake. You safeguard our security. You strengthen our international alliances. You foster peace.

And today, you are here because you have shown devotion beyond the call of duty throughout your career.

The Order of Military Merit is one of Canada's highest honours.

This recognition is not just about what you achieved, but also about how you did it.

You have exemplified the highest ethical principles and military values.

You've had the courage to do what is right despite danger or difficulty. You've displayed integrity. You've looked for ways to innovate and work better. You've helped create inclusive, supportive teams.

This honour is a call to continue striving for excellence, and to give your actions even greater scope. It is a call to keep inspiring others and opening doors for them.

It also reflects the dedication, sacrifice and support of your team and your family.

So, before closing, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all colleagues, family members and loved ones here today.

I also want to encourage you to take care of yourselves.

What you do is not easy. So, treat your mental health with the same level of care as your physical health, and be supportive of your colleagues. It is so important.

Congratulations to each of you.

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