McRaven receives prestigious Canadian military honor

OTTAWA – Chancellor William H. McRaven was awarded the Meritorious Service Cross from the Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada at a ceremony last week. The distinguished award recognizes those who have carried out meritorious acts bringing benefit and honor to Canada.

Canadian Governor General David Johnston presented five Meritorious Service Crosses and 25 Meritorious Service Medals at a ceremony at Rideau Hall on Friday. He also presented eight Medals of Bravery to Canadian Armed Forces members who have performed acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances.

McRaven was honored for his actions as commander of the United States Special Operations Command (USSCOM) from August 2011 to July 2014, where he demonstrated unequivocal support to Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM). According to the Governor General’s office, McRaven’s vision and guidance in framing the Global Special Operations Force Network enabled CANSOFCOM to take a leading role in global special force operations supporting the government of Canada. McRaven’s commitment to shared bi-national interests greatly improved the global special force network and strengthened strategic military Canadian-American relations.

“I am deeply honored to receive such a prestigious recognition from the Governor General,” McRaven said. “Being acknowledged along with members of the Canadian Armed Forces – many of whom put themselves in grave danger for the sake of duty, for their country, and to protect the lives of others – is an extraordinary experience. I am proud of the partnership we were able to build during my time leading USSCOM and I believe Canada’s role in the Global Special Operations Force Network will lead to a safer world for all of us.”

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