Two local residents with long records of service to their communities, province, and country were honoured last week.
Morden Police Chief Brad Neduzak and Lieutenant Colonel Mark Wilson of Winkler received the King Charles lll Coronation Medal from Morden-Winkler MLA Carrie Hiebert at a special ceremony April 22.
“It’s an extreme honour to be nominated and receive the King Charles III Coronation Medal … it’s an extremely proud moment for sure,” said Neduzak. “Nobody does this for recognition … it just makes coming to work each and every day more special and worthwhile.”
“It’s a huge privilege to be honoured in such a way,” agreed Wilson, who has balanced military service with his teaching role at Garden Valley Collegiate. “I’ve had the opportunity to work for the Canadian Forces for 28 years … it’s nice that it’s noticed.”
Hiebert said it was an immense privilege and great honour for her to celebrate these two dedicated community members.
“This medal is a tangible symbol of the profound impact you have made on our communities and our nation,” she said, noting how they both exemplify extraordinary commitment to serving others and embodying the true spirit of leadership.
Hiebert noted how Wilson had recently retired as the commanding officer of the 38th Canadian brigade group artillery tactical group, but it followed a military career that began in 1997 and saw him rise in the ranks to sergeant and then eventually lieutenant colonel and commanding officer.
His service included being deployed in 2007 to Afghanistan for training of the Afghan army and in 2017 to Iraq to help liberate that nation from ISIS.
“Lt. Col. Wilson has exemplified what it means to lead with honour, courage and dedication. His exemplary service with the Canadian armed forces reflects not only his commitment to our country but also his unwavering spirit and dedication to the values we hold dear,” Hiebert said.
She also referenced Wilson balancing a military career with his teaching career, and lauded his dedication and passion for both learning and leadership.
“I’ve always lived a bit of a dual life,” reflected Wilson. “I’ve enjoyed the teaching side just as much as the army side … you hope to instill in them a desire to serve the community.”
Wilson emphasized being motivated and driven by his sense of duty.
“It was a privilege to work for the forces for so long and to work as part of so many different teams,” he said, adding he hopes to perhaps inspire others to serve in some way.
“I think there’s a lot of different ways to serve,” he said. I think the forces is only one. I think the important part is the sense of duty towards the community, something bigger than yourself.”
Hiebert saluted Neduzak for a long career and record of service that has included 25 years as police chief alone.
“For 40 years, Chief Neduzak has been a beacon of leadership and integrity within the Morden Police Service,” she said. “His unwavering commitment to public safety and well being in our community is a statement to his career and professionalism.”
She also cited him for many accomplishments such as the formation of the first K9 unit as well as a regional tactical team, negotiating team, and community resource officers.
“Chief Neduzak’s vision and dedication to advancing our police strategies have truly set the standard for future generations,” Hiebert said.
Neduzak expressed gratitude for “the people you work with for sure, and the community you live in and you work for … if it wasn’t for the group that I work with, my staff, they are so supportive in everything that I do and try to do, and they are there to help me along the way. They make my job easy.”
He also offered a thought on what really stood out the most for him when he looks back at his career.
“I think just the general growth of the police service and what we are able to offer the citizens of Morden,” he said, citing as well the growth of regional co-operation particularly with the Winkler police.
“You can’t do this alone. You have to work together,” he said. “There’s strength in numbers.”
