Meritorious Service Medal
- Awarded on: December 18, 2006
- Invested on: June 07, 2007
Rank: Colonel
Colonel Vernon of the British Army served as chief of staff of the Multinational Brigade - Regional Command South in Afghanistan from February to October 2006. A strategic thinker and master organizer, he established a multinational headquarters that began effective operations immediately upon entry into theatre. The success of combat operations was largely attributed to his planning abilities and knowledge of tactics and operations. He made an invaluable contribution to information operations, interacting with Afghan National Army Corps personnel and coordinating British resources. Through his actions supporting the strategic goals of the Canadian mission in Afghanistan, Colonel Vernon has brought great credit to the United Kingdom, to the Canadian Forces and to Canada.