History

This Order is conferred upon Canadians whose services and actions have displayed meritorious Canadian qualities, and whose achievements have inspired citizens within Canada and the international community.

Foreign citizens may be awarded this Order as an Honourary member.

When the Order is conferred upon women the awards are worn on a bow ribbon.

The Order originally featured the Companion, the Medal of Service, and the associated Medal of Courage. The motto: Desiderantes Melioren Patriam means "they desire a better country."

The Medal of Service and the Medal of Courage were abolished on July 1, 1972, and the grades of Officer and Member were added to the Order instead. After the Medal of Service was abolished, the recipients who had received the medal were awarded with the new rank of Officer or Member.

While there is no limit to the number of living Officer recipients, only 64 may be appointed each year. Once an Officer, the individual may use the post-nominals OC.