OTTAWA Nancy Payne, a resident of Lansdowne, Ontario, continues to mourn the loss of her son, Cpl. Randy Joseph Payne, who was tragically killed in Afghanistan on April 22, 2006. Nancy recalls that Randy’s superior officer expressed regret, stating that her son should never have been deployed to a combat zone due to his exceptional potential. This heartfelt acknowledgment highlights the loss felt not only by Nancy but also by those who recognized Randy’s capabilities within the Canadian Armed Forces.
Randy Payne was part of the military’s close protection team, tasked with safeguarding high-profile figures, including the Prime Minister and the Chief of Defence Staff. At the time of his death, he was guarding Brig.-Gen. David Fraser, who has since retired. Just three months into his deployment and two years after enlisting as a military police officer, Randy was killed in a roadside bombing that struck their armoured vehicle, known as a G-wagon.
During the tragic incident, which resulted in the deaths of four soldiers, Randy was one of the first Canadian soldiers killed in such a significant attack in four years. Nancy recounts that Brig.-Gen. Fraser had left the unit the night before the bombing, and the Taliban likely mistook the vehicle for one that still carried the general. This act of violence claimed the lives of four innocent soldiers, including her beloved son.
In a poignant act of remembrance, Nancy Payne was selected as the national Silver Cross Mother by the Royal Canadian Legion for this year. This annual honor is bestowed upon a mother of a soldier who has lost their life while serving in the military, allowing her to represent all mothers who have endured similar losses. On the upcoming Tuesday, she will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, symbolizing both personal grief and national sacrifice.
Reflecting on her selection, Nancy expressed gratitude and humility, stating, “It’s a great honour for sure.” Along with the wreath-laying, she has a busy schedule filled with meetings with dignitaries and participation in various events around the national capital. Despite her age and the challenges of the intense itinerary, Nancy approaches her responsibilities with a lighthearted attitude.
Every year since Randy's death, Nancy has participated in local Remembrance Day ceremonies by laying wreaths. However, this year marks a significant change, as she will attend the ceremonies with her husband, David. In past years, the couple often attended different ceremonies in their community to honor Randy and ensure they paid their respects at multiple events.
The Payne family has a rich history of service in the Canadian Armed Forces. David, Nancy’s husband, completed a remarkable 30-year career in the infantry. Their other son, Chris, had a 20-year tenure in the military, and Nancy's uncle was a veteran of the Second World War. The legacy of military service continues, as Randy’s son has now become a combat engineer in the Canadian Armed Forces as well.
During her wreath-laying ceremonies, Nancy reflects deeply on the experiences of her family members who went to war and what they must have endured in their final moments. These thoughts are interwoven with memories of Randy, intensifying her emotional connection to the sacrifices made by her family and fellow soldiers.
