Brigadier-General Mark “Buck” Hickey was recognized Wednesday, July 22, during a ceremony at 4 Wing Cold Lake celebrating his promotion to one of the Canadian Armed Forces’ senior leadership ranks.

The promotion follows Hickey’s tenure as Commander of 4 Wing and CFB Cold Lake, during which he oversaw continued operational growth and helped prepare the base for the arrival of Canada’s future F-35 fighter fleet.

Major-General Chris McKenna presented Hickey with his new rank during the ceremony, attended by military leaders and municipal representatives from across the region.

Years of leadership recognized

During his time leading 4 Wing, Hickey helped guide one of Canada’s busiest operational fighter wings through a period of modernization while strengthening relationships with surrounding municipalities and community partners.

Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul MLA and Alberta’s Military Liaison Scott Cyr said Hickey’s promotion reflects a career dedicated to service and leadership.

“This promotion to Brigadier-General is a well-deserved recognition of Mark Hickey’s outstanding leadership, professionalism and distinguished service to Canada,” Cyr said.

He added that Hickey’s leadership helped position 4 Wing for the future while reinforcing its importance to both Alberta and Canada’s national defence.

Strong community partnerships

Cyr said one of Hickey’s lasting contributions has been strengthening the relationship between 4 Wing and the surrounding region.

He noted that collaboration between the military and local communities continues to play an important role as Cold Lake prepares for future growth tied to the F-35 program.

Among those attending the ceremony were Cold Lake Mayor Bob Mattice, Bonnyville Mayor Elisa Brosseau, M.D. of Bonnyville Deputy Reeve Ben Fadeyiw, incoming 4 Wing Commander Colonel Tim Woods and Vice Wing Commander Colonel Laura Gagné.

On behalf of residents of Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul, Cyr congratulated Hickey on his promotion and wished him, his wife Jill and their family continued success as he begins his new appointment.