Article by: Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Program Officer
On 23 Jan 25, a unique and heartfelt medal presentation ceremony was held for retired MCpl Jordan O'Brien. Deployed on Operation Impact in 2019, MCpl O'Brien did not receive his General Campaign Star with the correct engraving. Despite his retirement on 04 Jan 24, the replacement medal had not been issued. Recognizing this oversight, the 1 Combat Engineer Regiment (1 CER) took action to ensure that MCpl O'Brien received the recognition he deserved.
LCol Michael Veitch, CO of 1 CER expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to rectify the situation, stating, "It is an honor for 1 CER to make this right. This was not an easy task, but thanks to the tireless efforts of Captain Trenton Klimack, Benjamin Campbell, and Michael Tholl, and especially our HR manager, WO Priscilla Desbiens, we were able to ensure our soldiers receive the recognition they deserve."
CWO Brian Leben, RSM of 1 CER, added, "Keeping up with administration with the current staff shortages is challenging, but Sappers always look after Sappers. I am proud that we could make this right. This ceremony is an example of our commitment to each other and to the values we uphold for all the past and current serving members."
MCpl Jordan O'Brien retired after nine years of distinguished service. Known for his self-motivation and dedication, MCpl O'Brien completed the Combat Diver course, the Basic Parachutist course, and was selected to attend the Special Operations Assaulter Course with the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM) in 2023.
The ceremony was a reminder of the importance of recognizing the sacrifices and achievements of our serving members. It highlighted the commitment of 1 CER to honor and support their Sappers, ensuring that their contributions do not go unrecognized.
Special thanks to those involved in making this right, and heartfelt gratitude to MCpl Jordan O’Brien for his dedicated service to the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Engineers. It's stories like this that remind us of the importance of looking out for one another.
CHIMO