The Order of Military Merit (Ordre du mérite militair in French) is a Canadian military honor for merit, the second highest order administered on behalf of the Canadian monarch. The Order was created in 1972 to replace a grouping within the Order of Canada and recognize members of the Canadian Forces who have demonstrated dedication and devotion beyond the call of duty, achieving conspicuous merit and exceptional military service.
The Canadian monarch is the fount of honor and is thus at the apex of the Order of Military Merit as its sovereign. The governor general of Canada serves as the fellowship’s chancellor and the chief of the Defence Staff as the principal commander. There are no limits to the population of any grade, and promotions are possible although rare.
The Order has three grades:
- Commander: For outstanding meritorious service and demonstrated leadership in duties of great responsibility.
- Officer: For outstanding meritorious service in duties of responsibility.
- Member: For exceptional service or performance of duty.
The Order of Military Merit Design
The badge of the order is a blue-enameled, straight-end cross pattée.
The insignia is edged in gold and bears, on the obverse, a red maple leaf in its center, on a white background, surrounded by an annulus enameled red which bears the inscription “MERIT-MERITE-CANADA” in gold. The annulus is surmounted by the Royal Crown enameled in full colors.
The reverse is plain with the exception of an inventory number. The Commander’s insignia 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.
The ribbon of the Order is blue and measures 38 millimeters wide.
