What is the Order of Military Merit?

The Order of Military Merit is a Canadian national honour established by Queen Elizabeth II by Letters Patent on July 1, 1972 to recognise conspicuous merit and exceptional service by members of the Canadian Armed Forces, both Regular and Reserve. It is the military counterpart to the Order of Canada and stands between operational decorations such as the Star of Military Valour and long-service awards such as the Canadian Forces Decoration in the order of precedence.

The Order has three levels. Commander (CMM) is the highest, limited to approximately six per cent of total appointments, awarded for exceptional service and demonstrated leadership. Officer (OMM) accounts for about thirty per cent of appointments, recognising outstanding meritorious service in duties of great responsibility. Member (MMM) makes up the remaining majority, for exceptional service or performance of duty. The Sovereign of the Order is the King of Canada and the Chief Officer is the Governor General.

The Order's insignia is a stylised cross pattée of white-enamelled gold edged in red and gold, with a Royal Crown above and a maple leaf at the centre. The motto 'Merit Mérite' appears around the maple leaf. The ribbon is dark blue with three central red stripes, the colours of the Canadian Armed Forces' general service ensigns. Insignia are presented at investiture ceremonies at Rideau Hall and the Citadelle of Quebec.

More than 5,000 members of the Canadian Armed Forces have been appointed to the Order since 1972. Notable recipients include Lieutenant-General Roméo Dallaire (CMM), Vice-Admiral Hugh Gerald MacNeill (CMM), and General Andrew Leslie (OMM). The Order has parallels in the Order of Merit of the Police Forces (established in 2000 for police officers) and the Order of Military and Hospitaller Service (for civilian healthcare workers in military theatres).