• Awarded on: March 23, 2005

Major Vass was the officer commanding Parachute Company, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battalion Group during Operation ATHENA. On January 27, 2004, he was commanding the lead vehicle of a two-vehicle Iltis patrol in southern Kabul when a suicide bomber attacked the second. Assuming the role of on-site commander, Major Vass directed his driver to perform first aid, radioed for assistance and employed a passing Canadian convoy to further secure the scene, thereby ensuring his personnel could operate in a more protected environment. Though shaken by the news that one of his soldiers was dead and three others were severely wounded, he maintained control of the situation and provided assistance until the removal of the fallen and wounded soldiers was completed. In the aftermath of this horrific attack, Major Vass' composure, dedication and professionalism were inspiring to all Task Force Kabul soldiers, and brought credit to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.