Balkans35 Patron: Rear-Admiral (Ret’d) The Honourable Rebecca Patterson, OMM MSM CD

Rear-Admiral (Ret’d) The Honourable Rebecca Patterson, OMM MSM CD is a 34 year Canadian Armed Forces veteran. A registered nurse by training, Senator Patterson enjoyed a rewarding career with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). As a provider and executive health leader, she worked in military healthcare delivery, education, training, and operational and strategic planning, both at home and on international deployments.

On promotion to Flag (General) Officer, she was the first person with a military nursing background ever lead at that rank. With a passion for service, Senator Patterson has led in many different domains in the CAF. From serving as the Defence Champion for Women, addressing sexual misconduct and leading culture change efforts in the CAF, to commanding Canada’s 14^th health system, the Canadian Forces Health Service at the height of the COVID 19 pandemic, she has always been focused on creating healthy work environments and uplifting others. She has been a strong advocate to transform the culture, eliminate harmful behaviour, and re-establish public trust in the Canadian military.

Senator Patterson was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada in 2014, and inducted as an Officer in the Order of Military Merit in 2018. She is also the recipient of numerous other honours and awards, including the Ontario Premier’s Award for Excellence in Health Sciences for the Ontario College Graduates, and the Niagara College Canada Distinguished Alumni Award. She remains an active member of the College of Nurses of Ontario, the Canadian College of Health Leaders, and the Royal Canadian Medical Service Association.

Senator Patterson is now the first women to be a CAF veteran and be appointed to the Senate of Canada, where she remains committed to serving Canadians and ensuring CAF members, their families, and veterans have their voice represented. She lives in Ottawa with her family.