Remembering Second World War veteran Jack Agnew, a lifelong advocate for amputees
November 6, 2026 – Second World War amputee veteran Jack Agnew (1921-1989) was a dedicated War Amps leader whose service and advocacy helped strengthen the organization’s support for all amputees across Canada.
At just 18 years old, Agnew enlisted with the Seaforth Highlanders and served in the United Kingdom and the Mediterranean. In December 1944, he lost his left leg below the knee and suffered other injuries while stationed in Italy. The amputation
of his leg would change the course of his life and inspire his lifelong commitment to helping fellow amputees.
A year after returning to Canada, Agnew joined The War Amps, an organization established by First World War amputee veterans. He soon became known as one of the Vancouver Branch’s most active members, holding several positions over his 41 years
with the Association, including President, Vice-President and Chairman of the Membership Committee. He also served on The War Amps National Council as Vice-President, followed by President from 1983 to 1989.
Agnew was one of the Second World War amputee members who was instrumental to The War Amps evolution from a veteran-focused organization into a charity supporting all amputees across Canada. With the needs of War Amps members met, Agnew dedicated
much of his time and energy to the Child Amputee (CHAMP) and PLAYSAFE programs. He believed in the importance of sharing his experiences with young amputees and their parents at CHAMP seminars. By playing golf and other sports, he showed them
that amputees could live active lives.
Agnew devoted significant time to PLAYSAFE, a unique “kids-to-kids” safety program that teaches children to spot the danger before they play. At the time, he played a key role in the PLAYSAFE parade program, co-ordinating Champs’ participation
in community parades across the province to share The War Amps safety message. Today, The War Amps continues to spread the PLAYSAFE message through presentations to school and community groups, and by hosting displays at safety and community
events.
Agnew also supported the Association’s advocacy work for veterans in the 1970s and ’80s, which helped secure a broader interpretation of the Pension Act. This work increased access to additional financial support for war amputees and other seriously
disabled veterans and led to an allowance guideline that continues to provide benefits to those covered under the pre-2006 Pension Act.
For his efforts, The War Amps awarded Agnew with the Meritorious Service Membership, Distinguished Service Membership and Honorary CHAMP Membership.
Agnew passed away on July 7, 1989, at 68 years old. His legacy endures in the ongoing work of The War Amps, which continues to support Canada’s amputees and veterans’ community.
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.
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