Meritorious Service Medal
- Awarded on: April 26, 2011
- Invested on: December 13, 2011
Rank: Captain
While deployed as the chaplain for Canadian Helicopter Force (Afghanistan) from November 2009 to August 2010, Captain McKay voluntarily assumed the role of chaplain for the American Role 3 Health Services Unit as well. While there, he provided spiritual and emotional support to Canadian and coalition soldiers throughout their healing process. Surrounded by the chaos of a medical unit in a war zone, he also worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of those providing care. In addition to this work, he found time to visit sick and wounded Afghans nearby. Captain McKay’s unwavering dedication to the spiritual health of soldiers from all nations, as well as the compassion he showed them, facilitated the success of the mission and brought great credit to Canada.
