The Order of Canada was established as the centrepiece of Canada's system of honours to pay tribute to those who exemplify the highest qualities of citizenship and whose contributions enrich the lives of their contemporaries. Only Canadian citizens are eligible to be members of the Order. The order has three levels: Companion, Officer and Member. Oscar Peterson was invested as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1972 by Governor General Roland Michener and in 1984 was promoted to the companion level.

Governor General Roland Michener, Mrs. Michener and Oscar Peterson. © John Evans, Ottawa

Oscar Peterson's Officer of the Order of Canada Certificate © Government House, Ottawa

Transcription:


The Chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order of Canada

To Oscar E. Peterson

Greeting:

    Whereas, with the approval of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, Sovereign of the Order of Canada. We have been pleased to appoint you to be an Officer of the Order of Canada.

    We do by these Presents appoint you to be an Officer of the said Order and authorize you to hold and enjoy the dignity of such appointment together with membership in the said Order and all privileges thereunto appertaining.

   Given at Rideau Hall in the City of Ottawa under the Seal of the Order of Canada this twenty-third day of June 1972.


   Secretary General of the Order of Canada

   By the Chancellors Command,

   [signature]

Oscar Receiving Order of Canada medallion from Governor General Roland Michener. © John Evans, Ottawa