The
Order of Military Merit is a
military honour for merit that is, within the
Canadian system of honours, the second highest
order administered by the
Governor General-
in-Council, on behalf of the
Canadian monarch. Created in 1972 to replace a grouping within the
Order of Canada, the order was established to recognize members of the
Canadian Forces—either regular or reserve personnel—who have demonstrated dedication and devotion beyond the call of duty, achieving conspicuous merit and exceptional military service. The three tiers of the order are Commander, Officer, and Member; specific individuals may be given extraordinary and deserving non-Canadians granted with honorary appointment into each grade.