- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
Canadian Forces’ Decoration
Ottawa, Ontario
Registration of an Insignia
October 15, 2025
Vol. VIII, p. 429
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Insignia - Honour
Suspended by a bar between two scroll arms surmounted by a maple leaf Or from a ribbon Gules charged with three pallets Argent, a decagonal medal Or the obverse bearing a contemporary effigy of His Majesty The King of Canada contourné and environed by the inscriptions CHARLES III DEI GRATIA REX and CANADA, the reverse bearing three maple leaves ensigned by a naval crown between two fleurs-de-lis and surmounted in base by an eagle volant affronty head to the sinister, all above a scroll inscribed SERVICE;
The insignia may be displayed with one or more clasps on the ribbon of the following design: A bar surmounted by the shield of the Arms of Canada ensigned by the Royal Crown all Or;
Symbolism
Insignia - Honour
On the obverse, the effigy of The King indicates in whose name the medal is bestowed, along with his name and Canadian royal title in Latin (meaning “By the grace of God, King”). On the reverse, the naval crown, maple leaves and eagle represent the Navy, Army and Air Force. The inscription “Service” acknowledges members of the Canadian Armed Forces who have completed 12 years of service and who have a good record of conduct. The ten sides of the insignia represent the provinces of Canada.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on January 1, 1900, in Volume 0, page 0 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of the Department of National Defence.
Painter
Cathy Bursey-Sabourin
Calligrapher
* Not applicable / Sans objet
Recipient Information
Military Institution
Military
The Canadian Forces’ Decoration was created by King George VI in December 1949. The updated version was approved by His Majesty King Charles III in March 2024.