The
orders, decorations, and medals of Canada comprise a complex system by which
Canadians are honoured by the
country's sovereign for actions or deeds that benefit their community or the country at large. Modelled on its
British predecessor, the structure originated in the 1930s, but began to come to full fruition at the time of
Canada's centennial in 1967, with the establishment of the
Order of Canada, and has since grown in both size and scope to include
dynastic and
national orders,
state,
civil, and
military decorations; and various
campaign medals. The monarch in right of each
Canadian province also issues
distinct orders and medals to honour residents for work performed in just their province. The provincial honours, as with some of their national counterparts, grant the use of
post-nominal letters and or
supporters and other devices to be used on personal
coats of arms.