Promoted Master-Corporal Derek Picklyk is adorned with a new rank patch by his son Caleb Picklyk at an award ceremonial presentation on March 14.  (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

K-J Millar
Shilo Stag

Promoted Master-Corporal Derek Picklyk is up for one of the most challenging ranks in the Canadian Armed Forces, according to Regimental Sergeant Major Chief Warrant Eric Le Clair at a ceremonial presentation held on March 14, where a promotion and physical fitness award were presented to the soldier.

Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel David Cronk said it was just a few months ago that he presented the new master-corporal with the Soldier of the Year award, and now a promotion as well as recognizing his outstanding commitment to reaching exceptional physical fitness. 

“It’s another significant accomplishment [to reach] platinum, the highest physical fitness level in the CAF,” the BCmdr said, adding it complements the personal award of Fitness in Manitoba that the master-corporal recently attained.

The Regimental Sergeant Major said as Picklyk steps into exploring a leadership role, all eyes will be on him as an example.

“The rank of master-corporal is by far the most challenging … because you’re [observed] from below and [observed] from on top … everything that you do, you’re going to have eyes on you. You’re going to be critiqued every day … So, some words of advice – always put your troops first,” said Chief Warrant Officer Le Clair.

After LCol Cronk removed the old rank patch, the new rank was replaced by the master-corporal’s son, Caleb Picklyk, with his wife Allysen Picklyk looking on.

Master-Corporal Picklyk said reaching these accomplishments is a highlight that he wouldn’t have been able to attain with out the solid support of his family and colleagues surrounding him. 

Promoted Master-Corporal Derek Picklyk stands in between CFB Shilo Base Commander Lieutenant-Colonel David Cronk and Regimental Sergeant Major Chief Warrant Office Eric Le Clair at a ceremonial presentation on March 14. (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)

Promoted Master-Corporal Derek Picklyk is adorned with a new rank patch by his son Caleb Picklyk, with his wife Allysen Picklyk witnessing, at an award presentation on March 14.  (Photo: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)