MCpl Kiernan Underwood has travelled a long way since his humble beginnings as a 12 year old recruit in 142 Mimico Squadron in Toronto.

The middle brother of three enthusiastic Air Cadets and the son of two parents who readily participated in the Parent’s Committee, MCpl Underwood grew up with the influence of the program all around him. This played a part in his deciding to enrol in the Canadian Forces as an infantry soldier.

While serving with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in Afghanistan, MCpl Underwood is being recognized for two extraordinary acts with a Mention in Dispatches from the Governor General.

The Mention in Dispatches is a national honour created to recognize members of the Canadian Forces on active service and other individuals working with or in conjunction with the Canadian Forces for valiant conduct, devotion to duty or other distinguished service. Recipients are entitled to wear a bronze oak leaf on the appropriate campaign or service medal ribbon.

As reported:

On 26 February 2008, the Operational Mentoring And Liaison Team responded to a mass-casualty event following an accidental explosion in an Afghan bunker. Private Underwood collected casualties, then provided life-saving first aid for over two hours until a medical evacuation was completed. His vital action within the early days of the rotation saved the lives of Afghan soldiers and established trust and respect between the Canadian Team and the Afghan National Army.

Second recognition as reported:

On 7 July 2008, an Afghan National Army strongpoint in Zharey District, Afghanistan, was attacked from two directions by insurgents. Private Underwood directed Afghan soldiers to defensive positions and provided a heavy volume of fire until the attack was repelled. He called for the medical evacuation of a patrol that had been ambushed near the strongpoint and then set out to personally assist. Private Underwood's courage and decisiveness ensured the successful defence of the strongpoint and evacuation of casualties.

MCpl Underwood will receive his honour at CFB Petawawa later this year.

MCpl Underwood has on many occasions credited the Air Cadet program for the many opportunities he was able to experience as a youth and appreciates the support he received throughout the program.

Also important to mention is that Kiernan’s older brother, former CCWO Jonathan Underwood is also currently serving with the Royal Marines and has done multiple extensive tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

MCpl Kiernan “Conan the Barbarian” Underwood, you have certainly made us proud and we are so grateful to have such an exemplary solider and former Air Cadet serving with our Canadian Forces.