Meritorious Service Cross
- Awarded on: October 16, 2019
- Invested on: May 27, 2021
Rank: Colonel
As Canada’s defence attaché to Ukraine from August 2016 to July 2019, Colonel Irwin proved instrumental in realizing Canada’s foreign policy objectives. He rapidly became an influential and principal member of the mission, advising consecutive joint task force commanders, advancing security sector reform, and actively contributing to military co-operation between the two nations. Renowned for his professionalism and diplomacy, he has had an undeniable impact on Canadian Armed Forces operations in Ukraine.