Canadian Forces' Decoration
The Canadian Forces' Decoration (post-nominal letters "CD") is a Canadian award bestowed upon members of the Canadian Armed Forces who have completed twelve years of military service, with certain conditions. By convention, it is also given to the governor general of Canada upon his or her appointment, which includes the title of Commander-in-Chief in and over Canada. The decoration is awarded to all ranks, who must have a good record of conduct during the final eight years of claimed service.
Canadian Forces' Decoration | |
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Obverse and reverse | |
Type | Long service and good conduct medal |
Awarded for | 12 years service with the Regular or Reserve forces |
Presented by | The monarch of Canada |
Eligibility | Members of the Canadian Forces |
Post-nominals | CD |
Clasps | Bars awarded for every 10 years thereafter |
Status | Currently awarded |
Established | 15 December 1949 |
First awarded | 7 June 1951 |
– 12 years – 22 years Ribbons and rosettes | |
Precedence | |
Next (higher) |
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Next (lower) |
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The first governor general to receive the CD was Viscount Alexander of Tunis in 1951. The medal was initially awarded to all members of the Royal Family who served in the Canadian Forces, even without completion of twelve years of service; this has, however, not been automatic since 1953.