Son of Xavier Pilon and Florence McCullough, Clifford, was born October 20, 1924.

In 1941, at the age of 17, he enlisted as a volunteer in the Canadian Army and headed for training at Valcartier. On August 10, 1943, Clifford joined the Infantry Corps of the Régiment de la Chaudière.

While on active duty in Europe, he was wounded twice: once in the thigh and once in the ear. In 1945, he was sent to Holland, where he remained until his return to Canada and his demobilization March 16, 1946. 

That same year, Clifford Pilon married Lucille Martel of Trois-Rivières. The couple settled in Berthierville, QC, where their four children were born: Francine, Lyse, Ginette and Michel.

Clifford Pilon did not remain in civilian life very long. He volunteered for military service once again in May 1948 and took part in the Korean war until his demobilization January 27, 1954. 

Among his memories of military life was having attended, along with other soldiers, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, in 1952. This was a story Mr. Pilon enjoyed recounting to his children.