Barney Danson, Canadian colonel and politician, 21st Canadian Minister of National Defence (d. 2011)

Barnett Jerome "Barney" Danson: A Distinguished Canadian Public Servant

Barnett Jerome "Barney" Danson (February 8, 1921 – October 17, 2011) was a highly respected Canadian politician and Cabinet Minister whose career was marked by dedicated public service, both in uniform and in government. A decorated World War II veteran, Danson transitioned from a successful business career into federal politics, leaving a significant mark on national defence and urban development policies during his time in office.

Early Life, Military Service, and Business Ventures

Born in Toronto, Ontario, Barney Danson's early life laid the foundation for his future contributions. His commitment to Canada was evident early on through his distinguished service in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) during World War II. As a bomber pilot, he bravely completed 32 missions over enemy territory and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his exceptional courage and skill. This profound experience shaped his perspective and fueled his dedication to national security. Following the war, Danson demonstrated entrepreneurial acumen by co-founding Danson & Danson, a thriving men's clothing manufacturing firm, where he honed his leadership and organizational skills before entering the political arena.

A Career in Federal Politics: From MP to Cabinet Minister

Barney Danson's political journey began when he was first elected as a Member of Parliament for the riding of York North in 1968, representing the Liberal Party of Canada. He served in the House of Commons until 1979, becoming a key figure within Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau's government. His parliamentary career was distinguished by his ascension to the federal Cabinet, where he held two critical portfolios:

• Minister of State for Urban Affairs (1972-1976): In this role, Danson played a pivotal part in shaping Canada's urban landscape. He was instrumental in developing policies aimed at improving the quality of life in Canadian cities, addressing housing challenges, and fostering sustainable urban growth. This portfolio reflected a growing national recognition of the importance of urban planning and development.
• Minister of National Defence (1976-1979): As Minister of National Defence, Danson was entrusted with the crucial responsibility of overseeing the Canadian Armed Forces and safeguarding national security. During a period of Cold War tensions, he focused on modernizing the military, ensuring Canada's continued contribution to international alliances such as NATO, and managing complex defence procurement projects. Notably, he oversaw the military's role in ensuring security during the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, a significant logistical and security undertaking.

Legacy and Post-Political Life

After concluding his distinguished political career, Barney Danson continued to serve the public through various capacities. He notably served as Chancellor of York University from 1983 to 1988, contributing to the advancement of higher education. He also chaired the Canadian Institute of Strategic Studies, further demonstrating his enduring interest in national security and public policy. Danson's life exemplified a profound commitment to Canada, marked by bravery, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of his fellow citizens. He is remembered for his integrity, his pragmatic approach to governance, and his significant contributions to both national defence and the development of Canada's urban centres.

Frequently Asked Questions about Barney Danson

When was Barney Danson born and when did he pass away?

Barnett Jerome "Barney" Danson was born on February 8, 1921, and passed away on October 17, 2011.

What were Barney Danson's key roles in the Canadian government?

Barney Danson served as a Member of Parliament for York North (1968-1979) and held two significant Cabinet portfolios: Minister of State for Urban Affairs (1972-1976) and Minister of National Defence (1976-1979) under Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau.

What was Barney Danson's military background?

He was a decorated World War II veteran, serving as a bomber pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and earning the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his bravery.

Beyond politics, what were some of Barney Danson's other notable contributions?

After his political career, he served as Chancellor of York University (1983-1988) and chaired the Canadian Institute of Strategic Studies, among other roles.