We, the undersigned, petition the Government of Canada to review and reform the current practice of appointing honorary colonels and other honorary positions within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). This long-standing tradition, while once rooted in recognizing civilian leaders who contribute to the military, has increasingly been subject to political and partisan use. Such use undermines the integrity of these appointments, disrespects the sacrifice of veterans, and risks tarnishing the reputation of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Concerns:
1. Partisan Use of Honorary Appointments
In recent years, there have been instances where honorary appointments have been conferred on individuals with significant political affiliations or backgrounds. While honoraries are intended to be non-political, this practice has opened the door to using these prestigious roles for partisan gain, rather than recognizing genuine contributions to the military or the broader Canadian public. This trend diminishes the value of honorary roles, which should be about service and respect for the military, not political positioning or influence.
2. Disrespect to Veterans
The appointment of honoraries, when done with political motives, disrespects veterans who have served and sacrificed for Canada. Veterans, who have dedicated their lives to the defense and well-being of our nation, should be the focus of military recognition. The practice of appointing individuals with little or no military background, often for reasons unrelated to their commitment to the armed forces, minimizes the sacrifices veterans have made and sends a damaging message that service and sacrifice are not the primary criteria for recognition.
3. Erosion of Public Trust
As honorary appointments become increasingly politicized, public trust in the armed forces risks being eroded. The military holds a special place in Canadian society, with a mandate to remain non-partisan and professional. Allowing honorary positions to be used as tools for political gain undermines this trust, potentially weakening the bond between the military and the Canadian public.
Proposed Reforms:
We call on the Government of Canada and the Department of National Defence to:
- Impose Clear Restrictions on honorary appointments, ensuring that they are based on demonstrated support for and contributions to the military, rather than political or partisan affiliations. Any elected official or candidate running for office can not be awarded or maintain, such an honorary role. 
- Prioritize Veterans for honorary roles, particularly those who have demonstrated outstanding service to Canada during and after their military careers. This would reinforce the message that these positions are earned through sacrifice and dedication to the armed forces.
- Strengthen the Selection Process to ensure greater transparency, fairness, and non-partisanship in the appointment of honoraries. A more rigorous vetting process should be implemented to prevent undue political influence and maintain the integrity of these prestigious positions.
By reforming the process of appointing honoraries, Canada can ensure that these roles honour the individuals who have made significant contributions to the military, restore public confidence, and preserve the non-partisan nature of our armed forces.
Conclusion:
The tradition of appointing honorary colonels and other honoraries should be preserved but modernized with clear restrictions to prevent political misuse and to honor the sacrifices of those who have truly served Canada. We respectfully request that the Government of Canada takes immediate action to address these concerns.