W. J. Aitchison

Colonel William Joseph (W.J.) "Joe" Aitchison, OMM, CD (December 5, 1941 - August 21, 2025) was a Canadian military officer, and former Colonel of the Regiment for the Royal Canadian Regiment. He was also a security consultant and member of the board of directors of several organizations. He received the 2008 J.J. Kelso Award from the Hastings Children's Aid Society for his work with the Ontario Association of Children's Aid Societies.

Life Aitchison attended the Royal Military College of Canada and graduated with the class of 1963. Throughout Aitchison's career he held several command appointments, including being the Commanding Officer of 2nd Battalion of The RCR, Commandant of the Canadian Forces School of Infantry and Base Commander of CFB London, ON.

Aitchison had three sons, retired Master Warrant Officer Alan Aitchison, CD, Major General D. Craig Aitchison, CD, and Daniel, and five grandchildren, Justin, Colin, Kayla, Callie, and Alicia. Son Craig is a currently serving member of the Canadian Forces, while son Alan and grandson Justin are former serving members. Craig is also an officer in The Royal Canadian Regiment and also commanded the Infantry School (2009–11), perhaps the first father-son to command the same unit in the Regiment's, if not Army's, history.

Aitchison became the new Colonel of the Royal Canadian Regiment on February 25, 2011. On June 18, 2015, Aitchison handed over this position to his successor, Major-General (Retired) J.I. Fenton, OMM, CD.

He resided in Southern Ontario.

Honours and decorations Aitchison received the following orders and decorations during his military career:

Ribbon bars of William Joseph Aitchison OMM, CD

Canadian Version of this Medal