Captain William (Bill) Dickson (Retired), a former paratrooper, has devoted more than two decades to honouring the service and sacrifice of Canadian Veterans—particularly those who served in airborne units.
A long-standing member of the Canadian Airborne Forces Association, the Airborne Social Club (St. Albert, Alberta), the First Canadian Parachute Battalion Association, and Royal Canadian Legion Branch #271, Bill is widely recognized for his unwavering commitment, selflessness and leadership within the Veteran community.
Bill’s service continued after his military career through the Cadet Instructor Cadre, where he played a pivotal role in establishing the 3069 (1 Field Ambulance) Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps in St. Albert—one of only two such units in Canada at the time. He also coached small bore and air rifle teams, leading one to a Canadian Junior Championship.
In 2006, Bill volunteered with Canada Lands Company to help transform the former Griesbach Barracks into a civilian neighbourhood—The Village at Griesbach. Over eight years, he ensured Canada’s military heritage was preserved by recommending street names, writing interpretive storyboards, and initiating the Memorial Cairn Project, which honours all Canadian paratroopers who lost their lives in service. The cairn also commemorates Para Berger and Para Perron, who died during the Canadian Airborne Regiment’s 1974 UN mission in Cyprus.
Working with Veterans of the First Canadian Parachute Battalion, as well as federal and provincial governments, he assisted during the dedication of the monument at Siffleur Falls, unveiled in 2000. Since 2001, Bill has organized and served as Master of Ceremonies for an annual D-Day commemorative ceremony at the site. Now in its 24th year, the event—supported by the Airborne Social Club—has become a meaningful pilgrimage for hundreds of Veterans and their families, requiring nearly a year of planning and coordination with multiple Veteran organizations and government departments.
Bill also shares his passion for remembrance with younger generations, regularly speaking at local schools during Remembrance Day events. For many years, he has organized and served as Parade Marshal for the annual Remembrance Day parade in St. Albert on behalf of Legion Branch #271.
His dedication extends to preserving history through media. As associate producer of the documentary series Paratroopers – The Canadian Story, Bill travelled coast to coast—at his own expense—to interview over 350 Veteran paratroopers. These interviews have become a vital resource for Canadian military history, used in both educational and private settings.
Through his tireless efforts, Bill Dickson has ensured that the legacy of Canada’s paratroopers—and the broader Veteran community—is preserved, honoured and passed on to future generations. His leadership, compassion and dedication exemplify the highest standards of service.