Order of Canada

Membership in the Order of Canada is Canada's highest civilian honour, awarded to those who adhere to the Order's motto Desiderantes meliorem patriam, which means "they desire a better country." Created in 1967, the Order was established to recognize the lifetime contributions made by Canadians who made a major difference to Canada. The Order also recognizes efforts made by non-Canadians who have made the world better by their actions. Musicians, politicians, artists, television stars, benefactors, and many more have been accepted into the Order. The Queen of Canada, Queen Elizabeth II, is Sovereign of the Order and the serving Governor General of Canada is its Chancellor and Principal Companion. Since 1967, 5053 people have been appointed to the Order of Canada. {{ref|OoCTotal}}

Additional decorations

At certain periods of time, holders of the order were presented with other decorations. These are usually commemorative medals. Thus far four commemorative medals have been given automatically to every living member of the Order of Canada, or the Canadian Bravery Decorations:

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• Canadian Centennial Medal (1967)
• Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal (1977)
• 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal (1992)
• Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee Medal (2002)

Other provincial commemorative medals such as the Alberta Centennial Medal and the Commemorative Medal for the Centennial of Saskatchewan require independent nomination.

Related Topics:
Alberta Centennial Medal - Commemorative Medal for the Centennial of Saskatchewan

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