Second World War veteran Cliff Chadderton empowered a generation of amputees
As The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program marks its 50th anniversary this year, this remembrance season brings to mind the inspiring story of Second World War veteran Cliff Chadderton (1919-2013), the late War Amps CEO who was integral to the program’s founding.
At 20 years old, Chadderton enlisted with the Royal Winnipeg Rifles one month after the war began. He rose through the ranks from a Non‑Commissioned Officer to Company Commander serving in Britain, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. In October 1944, while leading his unit near the Leopold Canal in northern Belgium, a German grenade exploded nearby, causing him to lose part of his right leg. The injury would change the course of his life and inspire his lifelong commitment to helping other amputees.
After returning to Canada, Chadderton joined The War Amps, an organization established by First World War amputee veterans, and in 1965, he was appointed Executive Secretary of the Association. Under his leadership, The War Amps made the transition from a solely veteran‑oriented institution to a charitable organization that represents all amputees in Canada.
One of Chadderton’s greatest achievements was establishing the CHAMP Program in September 1975. In the 50 years since its inception, CHAMP has provided child amputees and their families with financial assistance for artificial limbs, peer connections, advocacy support and information about living with an amputation. The program is the only one of its kind and a lasting symbol of Chadderton’s belief in “amputees helping amputees.”
“Cliff was an inspirational leader of the veterans’ community in Canada, and once he took on a crusade, his tenacity and determination were legendary,” said the late Brian Forbes, who worked closely with Chadderton over the years, eventually becoming Chairman of The War Amps Executive Committee when Chadderton retired in 2009.
Known to many as “Mr. Veteran,” Chadderton led The War Amps for 44 years and championed programs that continue to change lives today.
For his remarkable efforts, Chadderton was recognized with several awards, including Companion in the Order of Canada, the Order of Ontario, induction into the Canada Veterans Hall of Valour and the Terry Fox Hall of Fame, the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.
Chadderton died in 2013 at 94 years old. His legacy carries forward in the ongoing work of The War Amps, through the many charitable programs he established to support Canada’s amputee community.
In a statement released following Chadderton’s passing, former prime minister Stephen Harper said, “Canada has lost a great man, but his legacy will live on in the many people whose lives he has touched.”
The War Amps receives no government grants; its programs are made possible by donations from the public. For more information, visit waramps.ca or call 1 800 250-3030.