Wearing of uniforms (Canada)

[Little Jo]

Originally Posted by Scott Bentley

If you go to the Governor General/DH&Rs website, it explains how to wear decorations on a Business Suit etc. Technically, they are the final authority when it comes to medals, awarding them, and how/when they are worn. I think this citation is amplifying wearing medals etc that aren't technically yours.

http://www.gg.ca/document.aspx?id=14980

My Groomsmen and I will be wearing our miniatures on our Tuxes for my wedding next year.

Hi Scott

Congratulations on your forthcoming wedding. Wear your medals proudly.

That is an interesting site. I note that there are very specific guides as to how and when medals are worn. I know there are a lot of people out there that wear unauthorised medals they are not entitled too and should be exposed. There is a drive in Australia currently under way to weed out these "wannabees" who wear unauthorised medals which discredit those who served their country and are awarded medals. I found one paragraph in the Canadian Governor General/DH&Rs website very interesting.

Wearing of Insignia by Unauthorized Individuals
Only the legitimate recipient may wear the insignia of an order, decoration or medal. In addition, although the insignia of a deceased person may be retained by the family as part of its heritage or given to a recognized museum, no one can wear them in any manner or under any circumstances.

In Australian Next of Kin are allowed to wear awarded medals on their right breast instead of the left breast for veterans. They are also allowed to march on Anzac Day in their own group for Next of Kin. This group is increasing in large numbers annually. It does look strange when you see some young people loaded down with medals awarded to several members in their families, but they look so proud to display them to the world to show family members who are no longer with us.

Cheers

Tony