Canada to Review Medals of Retired Soldiers with Afghanistan Mission Background

The Canadian government has agreed to form an independent board to review military honors, including the Victoria Cross, for retired soldiers with backgrounds in the Afghanistan mission. The decision follows years of advocacy by veterans, particularly regarding the case of soldier Jess Larochelle.

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence Shari Romanado confirmed the establishment of the review board during proceedings in the House of Commons. The board will examine new evidence that could support upgrades to existing awards.

In the fall of 2006, Larochelle single-handedly repelled a Taliban attack in western Kandahar despite sustaining severe injuries. He was awarded the Military Valour Star for his actions during the engagement.

Canada deployed around 40,000 troops to Afghanistan from 2001 to 2014. The mission resulted in 158 deaths and at least 635 wounded among Canadian forces.

The Canadian Senate and the provincial legislatures of Ontario, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia have passed resolutions in support of the independent review board. Legislatures in Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, and Manitoba are considering similar resolutions.