The Chief of Defense Staff Commendation

• Presented by the CDS, the Chief of the Defence Staff Commendation comes in the form of a gold bar pin that bears three equilaterally spaced maple leaves.
• The CDS Commendation is awarded to recognise deeds or activities beyond the normal demands of duty.

NARRATIVE

 Major Stepaniuk deployed to Haiti with the United Nations Stabilization Mission from June to December 2008. His leadership and planning skills harmonized the efforts of organizations from multiple countries, contributing significantly to successful counter-narcotics operations and the timely delivery of aid following four hurricanes. When a local school tragically collapsed, he helped coordinate the rescue effort and personally participated in the search for survivors. Major Stepaniuk's outstanding dedication helped save lives and enhanced the reputation of The Canadian Forces.

LCol Stepaniuk receives CDS commendation from Col Celestino, Comd 31 CBG