Richard Pucci

Colonel (Ret’d) Pucci had a distinguished military career, beginning with his enrollment in the Canadian Forces under the Direct Entry Officer Plan in 1985. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Alberta and studying geology at the University of British Columbia, he served in various medical operations and leadership roles. Notably, he completed an exchange with the Royal Army Medical Corps in the UK (1992–1995), held multiple command positions in Canada, and contributed to international missions, including in Kosovo and Haiti. He furthered his education with a Master of Defence Studies from the Royal Military College of Canada and played a key role in strategic healthcare planning. In 2010, he was invested in the Order of Military Merit, and he retired in 2016 as Deputy Commander of Health Services. Since retiring, Colonel Pucci has dedicated his efforts to improving healthcare access for veterans, a cause he is deeply passionate about. Recognizing the barriers veterans face—such as long wait times, limited provider availability, and bureaucratic obstacles—he has collaborated with government and non-governmental organizations to develop solutions. His work includes advocating for increased funding, partnering with healthcare providers, and engaging with community organizations to enhance support systems. Despite the challenges, he finds the work immensely rewarding, driven by his commitment to ensuring that veterans receive the quality care they deserve.