CALGARY -- Their 15 years of marriage was a blissful one filled with love and devotion. Maureen McKee is still grieving the loss of her husband, Thomas Aherne, who died of pancreatic cancer in 2017 - and she is still fighting for his benefits. Tears fill her eyes and her mouth quivers as she describes the man she calls her best friend. “He was a wonderful man,” McKee said. “He was actually an outstanding human being. He was so supportive and loyal, strong and yet humble, kind and genuine.” Aherne spent 21 years in the Canadian military; a Warrant Officer with the Special Forces who dedicated his early years to serving his country. The 59-year-old was a decorated soldier, highly respected by his peers and a leader, always putting others before himself.