Established on 1 July 1972, the Order of Military Merit recognizes conspicuous merit and exceptional service by members of the Canadian Forces, both Regular and Reserve. The Order comprises three levels: Commander (CMM), Officer (OMM), and Member (MMM). 

The Commander level is awarded for outstanding meritorious service in duties of great responsibility, typically to officers of Brigadier-General or Commodore rank and above. Recipients may use the post-nominal letters CMM. Only Canadian Forces members are eligible, and the Order is not awarded posthumously.