Commander of the Order of Military Merit

The Order of Military Merit was established to provide a worthy means of recognizing conspicuous merit and exceptional service by members of the Canadian Forces both regular and reserve. Appointment to the level of Commander is made for outstanding meritorious service in duties of great responsibility. This has been interpreted to mean that, as a guideline, only Flag and General Officers are generally eligible to be appointed a Commander.

Description

The badge of the order is a blue-enamelled, straight-end cross pattée (four arms, narrow at the centre and expanding towards the ends). The badge is edged in gold, and bears a red maple leaf in its center, on a white background, surrounded by an annulus enamelled red which bears the inscription "MERIT-MERITE-CANADA" in gold, the annulus being surmounted by the Royal Crown enamelled in full colours.

Bars

There is no bar to this medal.

Reverse

The reverse is plain with the exception of an inventory number.

Mounting

The Commander's badge has a small link at the top, to which is attached a larger ring and the ribbon passes through this for wearing around the neck.

Ribbon

The ribbon is blue, 38 mm wide, with gold edges (4.8 mm).

The lapel badge, a blue cross with a red maple leaf centre, is worn on the undress ribbon.

Elevations within the order are indicated by the wearing of the lapel badge of the current and previous levels on the undress ribbon. Postnomials

Naming

Each badge is numbered on the reverse but not named.

Dates

Order was established 1 August 1972.

Issued

As of 1 June 2012, there have been 220 appointments at the Commander level of the Order since its institution.

There have been 10 Signals and C&E Branch recipients of the CMM. Please see Commander of the Order of Military Merit - Signals Recipients for a listing of the individuals.