OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 06/25/11 -- The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:
"On behalf of the Defence family and our brave men and women in uniform, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, friends and comrades of a Canadian soldier, who died today in Afghanistan. The family has asked that the soldier's name not be released at this time.
Canada and the Canadian Forces continue to serve and sacrifice in support of the UN-mandated, NATO-led mission to Afghanistan. Canadian Forces members have made an invaluable contribution to stabilizing and developing that country. Canada's combat mission in Afghanistan is winding down, but the Canadian Forces remain committed to training the Afghan National Security Forces so that Afghans, themselves, can provide the security needed to build a better and brighter future for Afghans.
Afghanistan will once again flourish and stand on its own, thanks to the efforts of Canadian Forces members, including this soldier. Canada will remain forever grateful for his service to our country and to the people of Afghanistan."
Contacts:
Information: 1-866-377-0811/613-996-2353
www.forces.gc.ca