September 28, 1881 – June 18, 1959
The Edwards Family Mausoleum – Section 50
Colonel Cameron MacPherson Edwards is best remembered as the commanding officer who led the 38th Battalion (Ottawa), Canadian Expeditionary Force through some of the First World War’s most demanding campaigns. His leadership, courage under fire, and unwavering commitment to his soldiers established him as one of the Canadian Corps’ most respected officers.
Born on September 28, 1881, in North Nation Mills, Quebec, Edwards was educated at McGill University before pursuing careers in the lumber industry and the Canadian Militia. When the First World War began, he volunteered for overseas service and quickly rose through the ranks of the newly formed Canadian Expeditionary Force.
In January 1915, Edwards was appointed commanding officer of the 38th Battalion. Raised largely in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario, the battalion trained in Canada before undertaking garrison duty in Bermuda to protect strategic imperial interests. In 1916, the unit arrived in France, where it joined the Canadian Corps on the Western Front.
Under Edwards’ command, the 38th Battalion participated in some of the war’s fiercest fighting. During the opening assault of the Battle of Vimy Ridge on April 9, 1917, Edwards led his battalion in the attack before being seriously wounded. Evacuated to England for treatment, he recovered and returned to France only a few months later to resume command of his battalion—a testament to both his resilience and dedication to the men he led.
Throughout the war, Edwards repeatedly demonstrated exceptional leadership under enemy fire. His actions earned him the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and an unprecedented two Bars to the decoration, recognizing repeated acts of distinguished leadership and gallantry in combat. His DSO citation praised his “conspicuous gallantry in action,” noting that he personally organized and directed successful attacks while inspiring his troops through his courage and determination. France also recognized his service by awarding him the Médaille d’Honneur avec Glaives.
The 38th Battalion earned a distinguished record during the First World War, serving in many of the Canadian Corps’ major operations. Edwards’ steady leadership helped shape the battalion’s reputation for discipline, effectiveness, and perseverance during some of the conflict’s most difficult battles.
After the war, Edwards remained devoted to military service. He commanded the 43rd Regiment (Duke of Cornwall’s Own Rifles) before serving as Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel and later Honorary Colonel of The Ottawa Highlanders (later The Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa). His military career spanned more than fifty-five years.
Beyond the battlefield, Edwards was a successful lumber executive, a founding supporter of the Canadian Corps of Commissionaires, and Chairman of the Salvation Army Advisory Board. His commitment to veterans and community service reflected the same sense of duty that defined his military career.
Colonel Cameron MacPherson Edwards died on June 18, 1959. Today, he rests in The Edwards Family Mausoleum at Beechwood Cemetery, Canada’s National Cemetery. His burial place honours not only a distinguished officer but also the commander who led Ottawa’s 38th Battalion through the crucible of the First World War, leaving a legacy of courage, leadership, and service that continues to be remembered today.
