April 13, 2026 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time - 1:28

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Scripts and Scrolls Replacement Policy has been amended to broaden the types of situations in which replacements may be issued. CAF scripts and scrolls, such as the Commission Script, have historically been limited to a one-time issue. This update provides greater flexibility to CAF members, and increased recognition of changes in their personal circumstances.

The Commission Script is a formal and unique document with a tradition dating back to the 17th century that provides all commissioned officers with tangible evidence of a commission in the CAF as granted by The Sovereign. Officers and chaplains are accorded commissioning scripts whereas Chief Warrant Officers, General Officers, Flag Officers, and honorary appointments are accorded scrolls. The written commission, when signed and sealed by the Governor General of Canada, becomes a legal document vesting in the individual all the powers of a commissioned officer prescribed in regulations.

Until recently, replacement scripts and scrolls could only be issued when the original had been lost or destroyed. Now, a replacement will be provided in the following circumstances:

• Correction requests made more than one year after the original issue;
• Correction requests made within one year of issue, but where either the Governor General or the Minister of National Defence has changed;
• Where the original has been damaged, lost or destroyed; and
• Where the recipient has undergone a name change related to, but not limited to, marriage, divorce, gender identity, or other personal reasons.

Replacement scrolls under the new policy will bear the original effective date, as well as the recipient's current legal name and details. They will be signed by the Governor General and Minister of National Defence (or the Minister only for Chief Warrant Officer/Chief Petty Officer First Class Scrolls) to certify the authenticity of the "replacement." Previous replacement scrolls were signed by the Director of Honours and Recognition.

For details on the replacement process and additional information, please refer to the CF Honours Policy manual: Chapter 8 - Canadian Forces Commission Scripts and Scrolls.