# 2013-013 Others, Honours and Awards, Special Service Medal (SSM)

Case Summary

F&R Date: 2013–04–23

The grievor challenged changes made to the criteria for the Special Service Medal (SSM) with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Bar. He took the position that he and other members of the Canadian Forces (CF) have been wronged by decisions and omissions in the administration of the medal. As redress, the grievor sought the retraction of documents supporting and explaining the new criteria, the reinstatement of the previous criteria, and that he be awarded the SSM with NATO Bar.

The Initial Authority denied the grievance, explaining why the review of the medal criteria was undertaken, describing the lengthy consultation process involving senior authorities in National Defence and the final approval of the revised criteria by the Governor-in-Council. He further explained that the review produced two major changes: the geographical limitations were removed, and the eligibility for the Bar was restricted to overseas operational service under NATO command. The Initial Authority concluded that the grievor's service in a static position in Geilenkirchen, Germany with the NATO Airborne Early Warning Force did not meet the new criteria for award of the SSM with NATO Bar, and that he was therefore not entitled to receive it.

The Board was in substantial agreement with the Initial Authority decision, concluding that, although CF members serving in NATO billets prior to the change in criteria received the medal while those serving in the same positions after the change did not, it was not unfair or discriminatory. The Board acknowledged that, over time, the nature of various CF missions may be expected to evolve and undergo change and, to remain truly meaningful and relevant, it is appropriate that any corresponding medal criteria also evolve to reflect those changes that have occurred.

The Board also disagreed with the grievor's claim that members serving in NATO positions after the criteria changed were viewed by the CF as performing a service of lessor value because they were not receiving a medal. The Board pointed out that members serving in National Defence Headquarters do not receive a medal but their service is nonetheless highly valued by the CF.

Finally, the Board found that the grievor did not meet the eligibility criteria and was not entitled to receive the medal.

The Board recommended that the Chief of the Defence Staff deny the grievance.

CDS Decision Summary

CDS Decision Date: 2013–10–21

The CDS agreed with the Board's finding and recommendation that the grievance be denied.