Ontario woman honored as national Silver Cross Mother 2023

On November 11, 2023, Nancy Payne will honor her son’s memory by laying a wreath as the national Silver Cross Mother during the Remembrance Day ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. This significant event marks her first participation on such a prominent stage.

Background of Nancy Payne

Nancy Payne has represented mothers of fallen soldiers since 2006, the year her son, Cpl. Randy Joseph Payne, was killed in Afghanistan. Each year, she has laid a wreath at her local Remembrance Day ceremony in Lansdowne, Ontario. Meanwhile, her husband, David Payne, a veteran of 30 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, typically joins a larger ceremony in Gananoque.

The Sacrifice of Cpl. Randy Joseph Payne

Cpl. Randy Joseph Payne was killed on April 22, 2006. At the time of his death, he was part of a close protection team responsible for safeguarding military leaders, including the Prime Minister. Just three months into his deployment and two years into his military career as a Military Police officer, Randy lost his life in a roadside bombing.

Details of the Incident

• Randy was killed along with three other soldiers in a roadside bomb attack.
• The attack occurred while they were returning to Kandahar Airfield in an armored vehicle.
• This incident was the deadliest attack on Canadian Forces in four years.
• Randy’s unit was mistakenly believed to be transporting a high-ranking official, Brig.-Gen. David Fraser.

National Recognition

Nancy expressed her appreciation for being selected as the national Silver Cross Mother, stating that it is a profound honor to represent all Canadian mothers of fallen soldiers. As she prepares for the ceremonies in Ottawa, she acknowledges the emotional weight of the occasion, remarking humorously on her age and the upcoming challenges.

This year’s Remembrance Day ceremonies hold special significance for Nancy and her family. It is an opportunity to honor the sacrifices made by Canadian soldiers and to remember the impact of loss on families and communities.