In a stunning and disheartening turn of events, Corporal René Duguay of the Canadian Army has been penalized with a $2,000 fine and received a serious reprimand for audaciously wearing medals he did not earn during a Remembrance Day ceremony two years ago in Alberta.

Duguay reportedly pleaded guilty to charges of conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline, after being seen flaunting three medals on his uniform at a ceremony held at Cold Lake First Nations in 2022. Revealing the extent of his deception, military judge Colonel Nancy Isenor uncovered that Duguay had not been awarded any medals during his nine years of service, which included time in both the army reserves and the regular forces.

The shocking incident came to light shortly after the ceremony when military police launched an investigation into Duguay's uniform, revealing that he had no rights to wear the medals – two for service in Southwest Asia and one recognizing service under exceptional circumstances, all of which he had not earned.

Critically, the unit Duguay was associated with – the 4 Mission Support Squadron in Cold Lake – provided a military impact statement that illuminated the negative ramifications of his actions on morale and discipline within the ranks. Judge Isenor emphasized that Duguay's actions not only tarnished his own reputation but also disrespected the sacrifices made by veterans and current Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members.

This incident is particularly appalling as it took place during a solemn occasion meant to honor those who served, an event where the meaning of military honors is profoundly significant. “Members miss births, deaths, first steps, first words,