Michael Joseph Dalton, MBE, MC (May 5, 1902 – April 6, 2009) was a Canadian Roman Catholic military chaplain who became the most decorated Roman Catholic padre in the history of Canada's military.
Early Life and Ordination
Michael Joseph Dalton was born on May 5, 1902, in Goderich, Ontario, Canada. He studied at Assumption College in Windsor, Ontario. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 21, 1932.
Military Service
At the outbreak of World War II in 1939, Dalton volunteered to join the Essex Scottish Regiment of the Canadian Army. He served with the regiment in England, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. Although he could have avoided front-line service due to his age and position, Dalton considered it his duty to serve alongside the soldiers.
Dalton was known for working on the front lines of combat, often marching with his men and carrying their weapons when they grew fatigued. He frequently drove his jeep—often against orders—to the front lines to hear confessions from soldiers.
Dieppe Raid
Dalton was with the Essex Scottish Regiment during the ill-fated Dieppe Raid. He was present when the first two attempts to land were called off, but missed the regiment's successful third attempt to land due to a chaplain's meeting. Learning that the regiment had landed without him, Dalton demanded to be allowed ashore, but his request was denied. Only 44 of the 588 men who landed at Dieppe returned; the rest were killed or captured. Dalton subsequently took on the responsibility of notifying the families of the dead.
Honours and Awards
In the 1943 King's Birthday Honours, Dalton became the first Catholic priest to be appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), an award presented to him by King George VI at Buckingham Palace. He also received the Military Cross (MC) for bravery.
The city of Windsor, Ontario, named Dalton Veteran of the Year and Citizen of the Year in 1967. The city of London, Ontario, created "Father Dalton Drive" in his honor.
Later Life and Death
Dalton continued to celebrate Mass until his death. He died on April 6, 2009, at the age of 106, less than a month shy of his 107th birthday. At the time of his death, he was believed to be the oldest Catholic priest in Canada and Canada's oldest surviving serviceman from World War II.
