Canadian Army Makes Changes to Facilitate Depart With Dignity Certificates

The Canadian Army is making notable changes to facilitating the Depart With Dignity program’s certificates.

According to a recently released military memo, important changes have been made to how individuals can request an Army Retirement Certificate or Certificate of Appreciation for the member’s spouse and/or family.

“In order to provide more flexibility, simplify and expedite this process, Army HQ is encouraging units and Transition Centres to print DWD certificates locally,” stated CANFORGEN 160/24.

Significance of Depart with Dignity Program

The Depart with Dignity program was created by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) to recognize members who are honourably discharged. It ensures that members who are stepping into retirement are given “appropriate recognition” upon completing their service.

The program helps to create a standard for all those who are honourably discharged.

“The environmental certificates are an important component of the DWD program. I encourage commanders at all levels to utilize this program to provide our soldiers the recognition they deserve upon their release from the CF,” stated LGen. Michael Wright, Commander of the Canadian Army, in the released CANFORGEN.

Over the years, the program has undergone certain updates to improve its delivery. Just last year, the military announced it would consolidate all aspects of the DWD program under “one instrument.”

This includes the CF Service Pin and the Veterans Service Card.

Requesting Certificates Procedure

Army Headquarters has provided a DWD certificate template which can be found on the National Defence network, according to the CANFORGEN.

When requesting a certificate, members should use the following format, states the CANFORGEN:

• Full name, the way they wish for it to appear on the certificate;
• Rank
• Official post-nominals
• Enrolment and release dates
• Preferred official language
• Name and mailing address of unit OPI
• Date the certificate is required.

If an individual is looking for a Certificate of Appreciation for a family member, the member should include the full name of the family member.

Certificates can also be requested by email by reaching out to [+Army Retirement Certificate@CArmy AS HQ@Ottawa-Hull] (remove spaces) or [Army_Retirement_Certificate-Certificat_de_retraite_Arme@forces.gc.ca].