Maureen Anderson, a resident of Oromocto, New Brunswick, has a deep family history of military service. Her grandfather served in the British Royal Navy during the First World War, while her father fought in the Second World War. Maureen herself joined the Royal Canadian Air Force, where she met her husband, Peter, who served with the Ceremonial Guard in Ottawa. The couple had two sons, Ron and Ryan, who both pursued military careers, following in the footsteps of their family’s military legacy.
Both Ron and Ryan left high school early to enlist and underwent combat training at various Canadian Forces bases. They were deployed to multiple overseas locations, including Bosnia, Ethiopia, Haiti, and eventually Afghanistan. Their deployments took a toll on their mental health, particularly Ron, who was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite his struggles, he was recognized for his heroism in saving a child’s life during his deployment, a fact his parents only learned after his passing in 2014. Ron’s death deeply affected Ryan, who also struggled with psychological trauma and passed away in 2017.
The deaths of both sons, as well as her husband Peter’s passing in 2018, left Maureen grappling with profound loss. She finds solace in visiting their gravesite regularly and cherishing the memories of the time they shared together. Maureen recalls the support she received from her sons’ friends during the most challenging times, providing her with comfort and companionship. She also draws strength from her six grandchildren, who are a reminder of Ron and Ryan’s legacy and continue to bring joy to her life.
Maureen’s selection as the 2024 National Silver Cross Mother by the Legion has been a source of both overwhelming emotions and great honor for her. As she prepares to lay a wreath at the National Remembrance Day Ceremony in Ottawa, she will be representing all families who have lost loved ones to the horrors of war. The ceremony will also be a poignant moment for Maureen to remember her sons and the sacrifices they made in service to their country. The recognition serves as a tribute to the enduring memory of Ron and Ryan, whose legacy lives on through their family and the profound impact they had on those around them.
Maureen’s story is a testament to the sacrifices made by military families and the lasting impact of war on both soldiers and their loved ones. Through her journey of loss and remembrance, Maureen has found strength in honoring the memory of her sons and the legacy they have left behind. Her role as the National Silver Cross Mother provides a platform to pay tribute to all families who have lost loved ones to conflict, highlighting the enduring impact of war on individuals and communities. As she lays a wreath in their honor, Maureen’s presence at the Remembrance Day Ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve their country and the families who bear the weight of their loss.
