Colonel Jean François Riffou

  • North York, Ontario, Canada

Meritorious Service Decorations - Military Division

  • Meritorious Service Medal

    • Awarded on: October 22, 2013
    • Invested on: February 18, 2014
    Rank: Colonel

    As the commander of Task Force Jerusalem from August 2011 to May 2012, Colonel Riffou led the Canadian contingent sent to support security sector reform of the Palestinian Authority. His extensive experience and intellectual capacity helped lay the foundation for major transformations within the organization of the United States Security Coordinator. His work helped to strengthen the role of the Canadian Armed Forces within the mission and to cement Canada’s reputation as an important collaborator in the Middle East.

  • Meritorious Service Medal

    • Awarded on: May 29, 2009
    • Invested on: November 13, 2009
    Rank: Colonel

    Colonel Riffou was deployed to Afghanistan as the commanding officer of the Operational Mentoring and Liaison Team, from February to September 2008. His outstanding mentorship of the Afghan National Army’s 1 Brigade, 205 Corps brought them to the top capability milestone, and empowered the unit and its leadership to independently conduct increasingly complex operations. Colonel Riffou’s patience, leadership and commanding presence inspired his subordinates, enhanced Afghan National Army operational effectiveness, and brought great credit to Canada’s reputation in theatre.