Establishment of this award was started by General Gérard Charles Édouard Thériault, CMM, CD and finished by his successor General Paul David Manson, OC, CMM, CD in 1987.
[1] The CFMDS is awarded for "service of a rare and exceptionally high standard, which accrues great benefit to the CF as a whole."
[1] Recommendations for the award are submitted to the Canadian Forces Decorations and Commendations Advisory Committee.
This committee considers recommendations and submits the names to the Chief of Defence Staff of those who meet the conditions of the award.
The emblem is a flying eagle in front of crossed swords, superimposed over an anchor topped by St Edward's Crown.