Derrick served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 35 years as a field engineer, medic, and physician assistant in both Regular and Reserve Forces. A veteran of deployments to Somalia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Afghanistan, Derrick was medically released from the military following a diagnosis of PTSD. Rather than allowing this to define his life, he found a new sense of purpose through writing, volunteering, and supporting fellow veterans.

 Following his military career, Derrick created several veteran-focused Facebook support groups that help veterans navigate the challenges of life after service. He also became involved with The Memory Project, where veterans share their experiences and stories of military service with others. In his local community, Derrick volunteers at a soup kitchen, where he leads weekly art sessions and encourages others to discover their own purpose, build connections, and find a path toward a better life.

 As the Pembroke Team Lead for the Canadian Walk for Veterans, Derrick is committed to making Pembroke’s inaugural walk a success. For him, the event is a powerful reminder that although tours and deployments may be over, the experiences of service can remain with veterans long afterward. Organizations such as True Patriot Love play an important role in helping veterans and their families navigate that journey toward healing, connection and a more peaceful life.

 Derrick is honoured to continue serving his fellow veterans in a different capacity and is proud to help bring the Canadian Walk for Veterans to the City of Pembroke.

Contact Derrick