1920-2016

Aubrey McLean

Aubrey McLean was born on September 4, 1920, in New Waterford, Nova Scotia. While at university, he enlisted with the 18th Field Company, Royal Canadian Engineers. In April 1945, just one month before the end of the war, he was in Holland on a reconnaissance mission for a bridge in the area when he stepped on a Schu-mine. This injury resulted in the loss of his leg below the knee.

After the war, Mr. McLean became a mechanical engineer and joined The War Amps, serving as:

• Treasurer and President, Nova Scotia Branch
• National Director, Nova Scotia Branch

He would later go onto volunteer with the Association’s CHAMP and PLAYSAFE Programs and was known for overseeing the participation of the PLAYSAFE float in the Annapolis Apple Blossom Parade every year. An avid golfer and swimmer in his younger years, he was a role model for amputees and encouraged Champs to accept their amputations and accentuate the positive. This attitude can be seen in the video about his life, Accentuating the Positive: Aubrey McLean’s Story.

Mr. McLean was awarded the Distinguished Service Membership and Honorary CHAMP Membership from The War Amps in recognition of his service. He passed away on July 22, 2016.
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