Commemoration Ceremony for Canadian Forces Mission in Lybia

From March to September 2011, Lieutenant-General Charles Bouchard was the commander, Combined Joint Task Force (CJTF) Unified Protector. In a complex political environment, he developed a campaign plan that put pressure on the entrenched regime while successfully synchronizing the efforts of multiple nations. Leading an intricate combination of multinational naval and air forces, Lieutenant-General Bouchard brought great credit to Canada with his demonstration of exceptional operational and strategic acumen, which helped to protect the citizens of Libya from harm during this period of civil strife.

The Guard Commander invited the Governor General to inspect the Guard of Honour.

A flypast flew over Parliament Hill.

A commemoration ceremony was held at the Senate on November 24, 2011, to recognize the efforts of Canadian military personnel who took part in the NATO mission in Lybia.

"The Canadian Forces members who served in Libya did so in defence of our cherished democratic principles", said His Excellency. "You stood in solidarity with the Libyan people, providing security in their quest for self-determination, and supporting their demands for fundamental rights and freedoms. Your actions allowed Libyans to overcome injustice after so many years of hardship and repression."

During the ceremony, His Excellency presented Lieutenant-General Charles Bouchard, C.M.M., M.S.C., C.D., with a Meritorious Service Cross (Military Division) for his leadership on the mission.