On Monday, March 10, Physician Assistant (PA) William (Bill) Wilson, CCPA, was awarded the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal, recognizing his outstanding service to both his community and country. Standing alongside 20 other deserving civilians, military, and ex-military recipients, Bill described the moment as deeply humbling.
But for Bill, the day held even greater meaning.
He was joined by one of his closest friends of over 30 years, retired PA Derrick Nearing, with whom he has shared a long and impactful journey of service. Their story began in the early 1990s, when both deployed to Somalia in 1992. Since then, their careers have paralleled through multiple international missions — including Rwanda, Bosnia, and Afghanistan — where they provided essential medical care under the most challenging conditions.
“What made this experience truly special,” Bill shared, “was standing beside Derrick once again — this time not on a deployment, but as fellow recipients of this incredible honour.”
Adding to the significance of the moment, the medal was presented by Rear-Admiral (Retired) and Senator Rebecca Patterson, who also served with Bill and Derrick during their Somalia deployment. It was a full-circle experience — reconnecting not only with a lifelong friend but also a respected colleague from the very mission that first brought them together.
Today, Bill Wilson continues his commitment to patient care as part of the Cardiovascular Surgery team at Kingston Health Science Centre, while Derrick Nearing is exploring new ways to serve others by pursuing a master’s degree in art therapy.
The Canadian Association of Physician Assistants (CAPA) congratulates both Bill and Derrick on this well-deserved recognition. Their decades of service, dedication, and camaraderie are a true inspiration to all.