The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) Commendation is awarded by the Chief of the Defence Staff to recognize deeds or activities beyond the demand of normal duty.

Nominations shall be submitted through the Chain of Command and include a maximum of two pages narrative taking into account what the nominee did to merit the award, a 60-80 words electronic citation in the first official language of the nominee, a Recommendation for Individual and Unit Awards (DND 2448) signed by the L1/Group Principal, as well as the Member’s Personnel Record Resume (MPRR).

ELIGIBILITY & CRITERIA

The CDS Commendation may be awarded to:

• Members of the Canadian Forces (CF) who perform a deed or activity beyond the demands of normal duty;
• Civilian members of the Defence Team who perform a deed or activity beyond the demands of normal duty and under exceptional operational circumstances; and
• Members of the armed forces of a country other than Canada for an achievement or for meritorious service that is of benefit to Canada or the CF.

DESCRIPTION

The insignia for the CDS Commendation is a gold bar bearing three gold maple leaves.

BAR(S)

Not Applicable

WEARING

The insignia is worn on the uniform in accordance with A-AD-265-000/AG-001, CF Dress Instructions.

POSTNOMINALS

Not Applicable

HISTORICAL NOTES

The CDS Commendation is accompanied by a framed, gold-embossed scroll, inscribed with the member's name and an appropriate citation, and signed by the CDS.