Meritorious Service Medal
- Awarded on: May 17, 2012
- Invested on: November 15, 2012
Rank: Lieutenant-Colonel
Lieutenant-Colonel Simoneau, commanding officer of the Canadian Helicopter Force Afghanistan from July 2010 to April 2011, distinguished himself by his leadership and dedication. He optimized air support effectiveness by supporting a high number of deliberate operations and air assaults, transporting more passengers and cargo, and ensuring an uninterrupted combat supply. Following an aircraft crash, he developed a plan that would minimize the effects of such a loss. Lieutenant-Colonel Simoneau’s leadership and initiatives greatly contributed to operational success.