Allard, Jean V. (Jean Victor), 1913-

Jean Victor Allard (1913-1996) was a General in the Canadian Army and served as Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) from 1966 to 1969. He was also an inventor, a diplomat, and an amateur musician. He was born in Sainte-Monique de Nicolet. At mobilization, in 1939, Allard transferred from the reserves to the active force. During the Second World War, he was progressively promoted to Brigadier, commanding the 6th Canadian Infantry Brigade and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) on three occasions. After the War, Allard was appointed as military attaché to the Soviet Union, until February 1948. During the Korean War, he commanded the 25th Canadian Infantry Brigade from April 1953 until the truce at Panmunjon which he signed on Canada's behalf on 27 July 1953. Allard then held various posts, eventually becoming the first Canadian to command a British division, from 1961-1963, in Germany. In July 1966, Allard received his final promotion, to full General, and was appointed CDS, the first francophone to occupy this position. He held the post for three years before retiring from the military. He was heavily involved in supporting the integration and unification of the Canadian Armed Forces, and for ensuring a broader range of options for French Canadian in the military.

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