The Order of Canada (Ordre du Canada in French) is Canada’s national order and the second most distinguished service award in the country’s Orders, Orders, and Medals system. Only the Order of Merit, a personal honor from the Canadian monarch, comes close.
The Order of the Third Class was established in 1967 to commemorate the centennial of the foundation of the Canadian Confederation. It honors Canadians who have made outstanding contributions to Canada during the course of their lives in many professions, as well as the efforts of the Canadian people. Non-Canadians who make a positive difference in the world through their deeds. As a result, people who exemplify the Knights’ Latin motto, desiderantes meliorem patriam, or “they seek a better land,” as articulated in Hebrews 11:16, are allowed membership. Companion, Officer, and Member are the three ranks of the Order; renowned and honorable non-Canadians may be given honorary appointments of any rank to select individuals.
The order is executed by the Governor-General on behalf of the Queen of Canada. The monarch, now Queen Elizabeth II, is the monarch of the Order, and the acting governor, now David Lloyd Johnston, is its prime minister and principal assistant. Appointments to this order are recommended by an advisory committee and formally established by the Governor or the Sovereign. As of February 2011, 5,837 people have been appointed to the Order of Canada, including scientists, musicians, politicians, artists, athletes, businessmen, television and movie stars, benefactors, and more. Some have since resigned or been removed from office, while other appointments have been controversial. The right of the appointee to receive the badge and badge.