Chief Warrant Officer Pierre “Mike” Lussier was a soldier, a leader, a father, and a man whose legacy of service continues through the generations of his family.
Born on 23 July 1935, Mike joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1951. His military career spanned over 39 years, during which he served with distinction and earned the respect of those fortunate enough to serve alongside him.
Mike first served with The Fort Garry Horse before becoming an original member of 12e Régiment blindé du Canada (12 RBC)when the regiment stood up as a Regular Force unit in 1968. He went on to serve as the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) of 12 RBC, a position that reflected both his leadership and the trust placed in him by the soldiers and the regiment he served.
In recognition of his exceptional service to Canada, Mike was awarded the Member of the Order of Military Merit (MMM) in 1977.
But perhaps Mike’s greatest legacy was not found in the medals he wore or the appointments he held. It was found in the people he inspired.
His daughter and two sons followed in his footsteps and served in the Canadian Armed Forces. His son-in-law also served, extending that legacy of military service into another generation of the family.
On 1 September 1991, after nearly four decades of service to Canada, Mike retired from the Canadian Armed Forces. Yet retirement did not diminish the legacy he had built. His example continued through his family, through the soldiers he had led, and through the regiment to which he had devoted so much of his life.
CWO Pierre “Mike” Lussier passed away on 4 October 2022.
CWO Pierre “Mike” Lussier — a soldier remembered, a leader honoured, and a legacy carried forward.