Rear-Admiral (Ret’d) The Honourable Rebecca Patterson, OMM MSM CD is a 34 year Canadian Armed Forces veteran.

With a passion for service, Senator Patterson has lead in many different domains in CAF. From serving as the Defence Champion for Women, addressing sexual misconduct and leading culture change efforts in the CAF, to commanding Canada’s 14th 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 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 CAF woman veteran to 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.