History

The Canadian Forces Decoration was established by King George VI on December 15, 1949. The Medal is awarded to Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and men of all ranks of the Canadian Forces in recognition of 12 years of service. Service with the British Commonwealth forces was also eligible for the award if the last 5 years were served with the Canadian Forces and the recipient had not already received another Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. Approximately 2400 Medals are awarded annually.

A gold-coloured clasp superimposed with a shield of the Canadian coat of arms surmounted by a crown is awarded to denote an additional 10 years of service. A rosette may be worn on the ribbon to denote the award of a clasp when the ribbon is worn alone.

Recipients of the Medal are entitled to the post-nominal letters "CD."

There are 2 versions of the Medal which vary by ruling monarch. The King George VI version is composed of silver-gilt and features a reverse engraving of the recipient's name and service details as well as a suspension bar inscribed "CANADA." The Queen Elizabeth II version is composed of brass or bronze and features a rim engraving of the recipient's name and service details.