Cliff Chadderton passed away this weekend. He was 94.
A war veteran, he never stopped serving Canada and Canadians.
He was one of the most visible and well-known veterans in the country, appearing often on TV and radio both for his non-stop efforts on behalf of veterans, but also for creation of a programme to benefit child amputees, and the multitude of safety announcements that the programme created to warn children to “play safe” and beware of things that could permanently injure them.
Born in Ft.William Ontario, he attended the University of Manitoba and with Second World War just declared, he enlisted with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles in October 1939.
Landing on D-day, he was later wounded twice and had his right leg amputated below the knee after bitter fighting in the Scheldt estuary late in October 1944
“Cliff was an inspirational leader of the veterans’ community in Canada” Brian Forbes. War Amps Executive
Post-war he began working with a service organization known as the War Amputees (War Amps) and in 1965 became CEO ensuring ongoing aid to veterans and families in prosthetics funding and rehabilitation.
He expanded the organization’s role by creating the Child Amputee programme (CHAMP). This provides child amputees with funding for artificial limbs, along with education and counseling, the only programme of its type in the world.
The programme has proven to be an invaluable aid to thousands of children and their families.
He also became Chairman of the National Council of Veterans Associations, and was equally tireless in defending and advocating for veterans rights and programmes. He remained honourary chairman after leaving that position in 2009.
In recognition of his work, he received a multitude of domestic and international awards from being named Companion in the Order of Canada, Order of St John, Order of Ontario,several university honourary doctorates, Knight in the Legion of Honour of France, and others.
Brian Forbes who is Chairman of the War Amps Executive Committee says, “Cliff was a truly remarkable advocate who dedicated his life to protecting the interests and rights of veterans and their families … once he took on a crusade, his tenacity and determination were legendary,”
Reacting to the news, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper sent condolences to his family and said in a statement, “Cliff Chadderton dedicated his life to protecting the interests and rights of veterans and their families. Canada has lost a great man but his legacy will live on in the many people whose lives he has touched.”
Veterans Affairs Minister Julian Fantino also released a statement saying,”Through his leadership, compassion and determination, Cliff lifted up those in need of hope, served as a mentor to fellow amputees of all ages and set an example for Canadians everywhere.”
Youtube tribute to Cliff Chadderton
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