Meritorious Service Medal
- Awarded on: August 22, 2012
- Invested on: March 22, 2013
Rank: Lieutenant-Colonel
As commanding officer of the Canadian Helicopter Force (Afghanistan) from March to August 2011, Lieutenant-Colonel Derry ensured the provision of exceptional helicopter support to Canadian and coalition forces. He conducted a full spectrum of operations—from troop insertions in austere locations to armed escort and overwatch—which were critical to the unit’s operational success. Whether personally flying combat missions, coaching his team or championing the introduction of enhanced capabilities, Lieutenant-Colonel Derry enhanced the profile of Canadian aviation.
