Article by:Cpl Pietersma & Cpl Seppanen

Pte Ronald Victor Hyson was a son, a brother, a husband and a Highlander. He was born on September 19th, 1920 in Bridgetown, Nova Scotia. His parents were Kempton and Grace Hyson, and he had a brother Robert Hyson. He was married to Kathleen Johnson, whom he married in November 1944.

He joined the 48th Highlanders of Canada during The Second World War. In early 1945 the 1st Canadian Corps, which included the 48th, was redeployed from Italy to Northwestern Europe for the final phase of the war. The Germans were in retreat but were still defending key positions in the Netherlands. At the time, the people of the Netherlands were suffering widespread severe famine and harsh treatment under German occupation. The 48th played a significant role in the liberation effort, having conducted operations to clear German forces from Dutch cities and towns. The 48th was part of the advance that moved east through the Netherlands which included the city of Apeldoorn. In fact, the liberation of Apeldoorn in particular stands as a symbol of the 48th’s role in helping free Europe from Nazi control and remains a proud chapter in our unit’s history.

During the liberation of Apeldoorn, which was part of Operation CANNONSHOT, on the 16th of April 1945 at approximately 0820 hrs, Pte Ronald V Hyson was shot and killed by enemy sniper fire while moving along the south side of the canal. He was 25 years old.

He left behind a mother, a brother, and a wife among likely many others who would experience this loss. Due in part to his sacrifice, the liberation of Apeldoorn was achieved on April 17, 1945. It marked one of the final major actions of the Canadian forces in Europe. Less than a month later, the Germans surrendered.Following his death Pte Hyson was buried at Wilp with the other 18 fallen highlanders from Operation CANNONSHOT, but was eventually laid to rest at the Holten Canadian War Cemetery, which is for the fallen members of the Canadian Military during the liberation of Apeldoorn. This well-maintained cemetery stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by Canadian soldiers such as Pte Hyson and the enduring gratitude of the people of the Netherlands.

The people of Holten have shown great dedication to maintaining this cemetery, as each of the graves is adopted by a resident. Ceremonies are held annually celebrating the fallen soldiers’ success and sacrifice.

Article by his son: 48th-Falcon-Magazine-Dec2020 38-39

NOK: Son of Kempton Havelock Hyson, and Grace Alberta Hyson, of Bridgetown, Annapolis Co., Nova Scotia; husband of Kathleen Hyson, of Bridgetown.