Lieutenant-Colonel William (Bill) Sergeant, OMM, CD (Retired), not only volunteered in many capacities during his 40-year career with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), he has been actively volunteering with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Association and the Veterans Club of Barrie for over a decade.
Bill dedicated nearly 40 years to serving Canada as an Aerospace Engineer in the CAF. His commitment extended to supporting Canada’s Cold War deterrence through NATO. He continues to contribute significantly to the quality of life of the Veteran community. Throughout his career, he engaged in various volunteer activities, including serving on the Greenwood Public School Board in Nova Scotia, coaching military base basketball teams across Canada, and running a youth basketball league at CFB Borden. His leadership and support earned him recognition as an Officer of the Order of Military Merit.
As a member of the RCAF Association 441 (Huronia) Wing for 15 years, he served as Director and the Chair for most of that time. The Wing sponsored Air Cadet Squadrons and organized socially distanced ceremonies, commemorating historical milestones. Bill also supported Ontario Veterans through the Veterans’ Club of Barrie, facilitating open discussions on topics like PTSD.
Additionally, Bill volunteered with The Royal Canadian Legion, coordinating speakers for the Poppy Fund Campaign. Despite challenges throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, his efforts ensured meaningful Remembrance Day services in schools, highlighting Veterans’ contributions during conflicts and peacekeeping missions.
Bill has made significant contributions to improve the quality of life for citizens in Barrie and beyond. As a volunteer with “Sleeping Children Around the World”, he personally distributed over 35,000 bed kits in developing countries. Additionally, he served as the Past Chair of the Barrie-Simcoe-Muskoka Branch of St. John Ambulance, providing first aid coverage for local events.
Bill remains active in his church and providing support through various clubs and committees, cadet movements, Red Cross and the Salvation Army’s Bayside Mission. He generously donates to Air Cadet Squadrons and organizes Honour Guards for Veterans’ funerals. He regularly visits Veterans in retirement facilities providing social contact. His leadership and commitment are admirable.