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}}

Grades

There are three grades (levels) of the Canadian Order: Companion (highest), Officer, and Member, each with respective post-nominal letters that its members are entitled to use. Promotions in grade are possible; typically this is not done until at least five years after the initial appointment. For example, film director Denys Arcand was promoted from Officer to Companion. {{ref|Arcand}} Originally the Order had only two ranks, Companion and the Medal of Courage (now the Cross of Valour). {{ref|TCE}} On July 1, 1972, the levels of Officer and Member were introduced and all existing members were made Officers.

Related Topics:
Post-nominal - Film director - Denys Arcand - Cross of Valour - July 1 - 1972

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Companion

Companions of the Order of Canada (post-nominal: C.C.) have demonstrated the highest degree of merit to Canada and humanity, on the national or international scene. Up to 15 Companions are appointed each year, with a limit of 165 living Companions at any given time, with the exception of honorary Companions. {{ref|Constitution}} As of September 29, 2005, there were 166 living Companions, including four honorary Companions. {{ref|LivingCC}} However, with the appointment of Michaëlle Jean to the position of Governor General, she will be the 164th Companion that will be living. The Constitution of the Order of Canada also allows for the spouse of the Governor General to be appointed a Companion, so Jean-Daniel Lafond will be the 165th living Companion. On August 29th 2005 Rideau Hall announced that Richard E. Taylor, a Nobel prize winning scientist from Medicine Hat, Alberta, would be made a Companion. Due to the honorary Companion rule, only three more Companions can be appointed to the Order before the maximum number is reached.

Related Topics:
September 29 - 2005 - Michaëlle Jean - Jean-Daniel Lafond - Richard E. Taylor - Nobel prize - Medicine Hat, Alberta

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Officer

Officers of the Order of Canada (O.C.) have demonstrated an outstanding level of talent and service to Canadians. Up to 64 Officers are appointed each year. As of September 29 2005, there were 1006 living Officers, although there is no limit to how many may be living at one time. {{ref|LivingOC}}

Related Topics:
September 29 - 2005

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Member

Members of the Order of Canada (C.M.) have made an exceptional contribution to Canada or Canadians at a local or regional level, group, field or activity. As many as 136 Members may be appointed annually and there is no limit on how many Members may be living. As of September 29 2005, there were 1,964 living members. {{ref|LivingCM}}

Related Topics:
September 29 - 2005

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