Tuesday, March 24, 2009

BGen Denis Thompson Coming to Waterloo, ON

Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan
present
BRIGADIER-GENERAL Denis.W. THOMPSON, OMM, CD Commander of Task Force Kandahar
on
Saturday, March 28th, 2009
7:00 – 8:00 pm
Wilfrid Laurier University - Science Building
75 University Avenue West Waterloo, ON

“The Struggle for Kandahar – Canadian Soldiers Making a Difference in Afghanistan"
(Presentation will include a question and answer period)

Our Speaker: Brigadier General Thompson spoke to Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan through a co-sponsored CIGI event just prior to his deployment May 2008 to Afghanistan as Commander of our Canadian forces as Commander of Task Force Kandahar. Having just returned February 19th. 2009, we are delighted that he has taken the time to speak with us and share his experiences.

“I am incredibly proud of our troops, and I leave Afghanistan with a renewed respect for them.”

R.S.V.P. Accepted until March 24, 2009 - seating is limited to 150.
Directions: Conestoga Parkway heading north towards Waterloo 85N, take the University West exit and proceed to King St. N. Turn left onto King and then right at Bricker, which will be the first street on your right. Follow directions to the parking lot. The room is located near the King St. side of the building. For a visual map of the area, click on: http://www.wlu.ca/maps/science.phpaps/science.php

Sunday, March 22, 2009

March 23rd, 2009 - They are Home



Canda received their fallen soldiers as they returned home on Monday. Our fallen soldiers, Master Corporal Scott Francis Vernelli and Corporal Tyler Crooks, of The 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment, based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa and Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes and Trooper Jack Bouthillier of the Royal Canadian Dragoons based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa, returned home to Canada on Monday, March 23, 2009.


Where: 8 Wing, Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ontario.


When: Monday, March 23, 2009 at 2:00 p.m.




Present to pay their respects were Her Excellency The Governor General of Canada, The Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Minister of National Defence, The Honourable Peter MacKay, Vice Chief of the Defence Staff, Vice-Admiral Denis Rouleau and other dignitaries

The entourage left Trenton not until 3:30 or 4:00 pm after repatriation.


Thank you for joining others along the overpasses on the 401 Westbound from Trenton to Toronto to show your respect and support of families of our fallen, showing them we are there for them, in support of the soldiers and families. Wearing red and flying a flag in our soldiers' honour shows that will remember them for their dedication, courage and heroic work always and forever.
Photo Credit:Fred Thornhill/Reuters
Marcie Lane, the wife of late Master Corporal Scott Vernelli, salutes her husband's casket while carrying their daughter Olivia.
The widow of one of four Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan last week almost collapsed from grief Monday as her husband's flag-draped casket was carried from a military aircraft during a repatriation ceremony at this eastern Ontario military base.
As the casket of Master Cpl. Scott Vernelli was brought down the ramp by fellow soldiers, his wife Marcie Lane was so overcome that she had to pass her baby Olivia to a woman beside her.
After the casket was placed inside a hearse, Lane composed herself, walked up to the vehicle and offered a crisp military salute.
The coffin carrying Cpl. Tyler Crooks came down the ramp after Vernelli's, followed by the caskets of Trooper Jack Bouthillier and Trooper Corey Hayes.

Weeping from Crooks's family could be heard across the runway as his casket appeared, and family and friends of the two troopers exchanged tearful hugs when their coffins came down the ramp.
Gov. Gen Michaelle Jean and Defence Minister Peter MacKay were among the dignitaries standing alongside the soldiers' families on the tarmac.
The repatriation ceremony was also attended by about 300 supporters who gathered outside the base on a windy and chilly day.
"As long as I'm able to come here I'll keep coming," said Georgina McQuay of Belleville, Ont.
"When I hear the bagpipes, that does it for me. It causes me to shed a silent tear."

Downtown Toronto
It was 15 minutes of quiet in downtown Toronto. Some 100 supporters stood at attention as the hearses carrying four Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan travelled down Grenville St. to the coroner's office.Among those waiting were retired Gen. Rick Hillier, former chief of defence staff, and Toronto police chief Bill Blair. "My heart was torn ... when I heard the news ...," Hillier told a Star reporter later. Earlier in the day, following the repatriation ceremony at CFB Trenton, the convoy made its way along Highway 401 where thousands of residents paid their respects, waving flags from highway overpasses.
♥ MCpl Scott Vernelli, 28, of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., is survived by his wife and six-month-old daughter, Olivia. He is remembered as an enthusiastic and dedicated father. He was a terrific athlete, very funny and, ironically enough, always able to joke at the worst of times.
♥ Cpl Tyler Crooks, of Port Colborne, Ont., was killed on his 24th birthday, was a keen and motivated soldier who loved dirt-biking and was a Texas Hold 'em card shark. He's remembered by his friends as the kind of guy who would do anything for you without even being asked.

♥ Trooper Jack Bouthillier's family in Hearst, Ont., said last week they truly believed the 20-year-old would return home safely from his mission. He is remembered as a joker who always had everyone laughing. His enthusiasm and his unswerving duty for work inspired other soldiers.

♥ Trooper Corey Hayes, 22, of Ripples, N.B., was remembered by family and friends as a "good kid." was a proud and dedicated soldier who always put his friends and family before himself. His friends remember him not only as a friend and a comrade-in-arms, but a brother who inspired them to stand up in the face of danger and do what was right.
They will all be remembered from within our hearts.

Friday, March 20, 2009

God Bless the Our Fallen Soldiers - MCpl Vernelli, Cpl Crooks, Trooper Bouthiller and Trooper Hayes ~ Friday, March 20th, 2009

It is with sadness today that we announce the loss of four Canadian Soldiers.
Four Canadian soldiers were killed and eight were injured in two separate IED incidents in Kandahar province.
At approximately 6:45 a.m., Kandahar time, 20 March 2009, two Canadian soldiers were killed and five others were injured when an improvised explosive device detonated in the vicinity of a dismounted patrol in Zhari District, west of Kandahar City. At approximately 8:45 a.m., Kandahar time, 20 March 2009, two more Canadian soldiers were killed and three others were injured when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in Shah Wali Khot district, north-east of Kandahar city.
The Injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at Kandahar Airfield. They are all reported to be in good condition, and their names will not be released.All members of Task Force Kandahar are thinking of the family and friends of our fallen comrades during this sad time. We will not forget their sacrifice as we continue to bring security and hope to the people of Kandahar Province.
Master Corporal Scott Francis Vernelli
In the first IED incident, killed in action was Master Corporal Scott Francis Vernelli, from November Company, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group. Master Corporal Vernelli is a member of the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.

Condolences If you would like to leave a message of condolence for MCpl Vernelli, please enter it in the comment section and I will transfer it here.

karen taylor said...
I am so sorry to hear about the four canadian soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan sunday, my son who is in the us army 2-2 infantry who were fighting on this mission with the candians told me he was on this mission, it is hard to explain that any minute you could get that call or visit your son is dead or wounded, I am so sorry four more familys heard that horrible news...I am so sorry and my prayes are with all the familys...

11:28 AM
As I sit here going through the endless comments on the 4 soldiers killed on March 20, 2009. I cannot let it pass without letting the families of Cpl Tyler Crooks Trooper Jack Bouthillier and Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes know how heartbreaking it is to lose such an honourable Canadian who sacrificed their lives for freedom and democracy. I too feel your sorrow and hope our memories and healing will continue together as one military family. Thanks to all our soldiers. Yours Truly Chuck, Ruth Vernelli & Family

Corporal Tyler Crooks
Also in the first IED incident, killed in action was Corporal Tyler Crooks, from November Company, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group. Corporal Tyler Crooks is a member of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.

Condolences If you would like to leave a message of condolence for Cpl Crooks, please enter it in the comment section and I will transfer it here.

karen taylor said...
I am so sorry to hear about the four canadian soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan sunday, my son who is in the us army 2-2 infantry who were fighting on this mission with the candians told me he was on this mission, it is hard to explain that any minute you could get that call or visit your son is dead or wounded, I am so sorry four more familys heard that horrible news...I am so sorry and my prayes are with all the familys...

As I sit here going through the endless comments on the 4 soldiers killed on March 20, 2009. I cannot let it pass without letting the families of Cpl Tyler Crooks Trooper Jack Bouthillier and Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes know how heartbreaking it is to lose such an honourable Canadian who sacrificed their lives for freedom and democracy. I too feel your sorrow and hope our memories and healing will continue together as one military family. Thanks to all our soldiers. Yours Truly Chuck, Ruth Vernelli & Family

Trooper Jack Bouthillier
In the second IED attack, killed in action was Trooper Jack Bouthillier, from the Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group. Trooper Bouthillier is a member of The Royal Canadian Dragoons based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.

Condolences If you would like to leave a message of condolence for Trooper Bouthillier, please enter it in the comment section and I will transfer it here.

karen taylor said...
I am so sorry to hear about the four canadian soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan sunday, my son who is in the us army 2-2 infantry who were fighting on this mission with the candians told me he was on this mission, it is hard to explain that any minute you could get that call or visit your son is dead or wounded, I am so sorry four more familys heard that horrible news...I am so sorry and my prayes are with all the familys...

As I sit here going through the endless comments on the 4 soldiers killed on March 20, 2009. I cannot let it pass without letting the families of Cpl Tyler Crooks Trooper Jack Bouthillier and Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes know how heartbreaking it is to lose such an honourable Canadian who sacrificed their lives for freedom and democracy. I too feel your sorrow and hope our memories and healing will continue together as one military family. Thanks to all our soldiers. Yours Truly Chuck, Ruth Vernelli & Family

Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes
Also in the second IED attack, killed in action was Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes from the Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group. Trooper Hayes is a member of The Royal Canadian Dragoons based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa.

Condolences If you would like to leave a message of condolence for Trooper Hayes, please enter it in the comment section and I will transfer it here.

karen taylor said...
I am so sorry to hear about the four canadian soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan sunday, my son who is in the us army 2-2 infantry who were fighting on this mission with the candians told me he was on this mission, it is hard to explain that any minute you could get that call or visit your son is dead or wounded, I am so sorry four more familys heard that horrible news...I am so sorry and my prayes are with all the familys...

As I sit here going through the endless comments on the 4 soldiers killed on March 20, 2009. I cannot let it pass without letting the families of Cpl Tyler Crooks Trooper Jack Bouthillier and Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes know how heartbreaking it is to lose such an honourable Canadian who sacrificed their lives for freedom and democracy. I too feel your sorrow and hope our memories and healing will continue together as one military family. Thanks to all our soldiers. Yours Truly Chuck, Ruth Vernelli & Family

Monday, March 16, 2009

St Patrick's Day Wishes


To Our Troops:
Happy St Patrick's Day!

May God grant you always...
A sunbeam to warm you,
A moonbeam to charm you,
A sheltering angel
So nothing can harm you
Laughter to cheer you,
Faithful friends near you,
And whenever you pray,
Heaven to hear you.
Photos by: Military Mom

May your heart be light
And your day be bright…
May a leprechaun bring yee
Good luck mornin’ and night.

To the troops in my son's section: Don the green and enjoy yee Leprechaun Poop :) and as one father put it: "Don't be drinking anything green over there" Let us raise a stein in your honour. (Enjoy your steins of goodies.)

Happy St Patty's Day to all our troops! Here's to shamrocks of luck your way and may the rainbows shine upon your barracks. Cheers! ~ m.m.
Happy St Patty's day son. I'd love to see the streamers you made. We're very proud of you. I Love you and miss you! ox

Monday, March 09, 2009

Combat School on Discovery Channel



Combat School: One Platoon
Premiers on Tuesday, March 10 2009 at 10:00 PM EST
on The Discovery Channel
Forty men and women from 1 Platoon, Mike Company, 3rd Battalion, Royal Canadian Regiment out of CFB Petawawa begin training for the most intense combat situation they've ever faced; the platoon travels to Fort Bliss, Texas, which mimics the Afghan terrain, to begin training.In Combat School, the training is intense and the expectations high. Those who are unprepared won't make it, and those who are ready leave everything behind to risk their lives in a war zone. - COMBAT SCHOOL captures every step of the mission-specific training as the men and women prepare for the most intense combat situation they have ever faced.
Duration: 60 minutes

For further information or to watch the trailer, visit: Combat School-One Platoon at: http://www.discoverychannel.ca/showpage.aspx?sid=14403

Here are the scheduled program times:

Tuesday, March 10 2009
10:00 PM EST
Combat School: One Platoon
Wednesday, March 11 2009
1:00 AM EST
Combat School: One Platoon
Duration: 60 minutes
Combat School: One PlatoonForty men and women from 1 Platoon, Mike...
Wednesday, March 11 2009 EST
5:00 AM EST
Combat School: One Platoon
Duration: 60 minutes
Combat School: One PlatoonForty men and women from 1 Platoon, Mike...
Wednesday, March 11 2009
4:00 PM EST
Combat School: One Platoon
Duration: 60 minutes
Combat School: One PlatoonForty men and women from 1 Platoon, Mike...
Thursday, March 12 2009
11:00 AM EST
Combat School: One Platoon
Duration: 60 minutes
Combat School: One PlatoonForty men and women from 1 Platoon, Mike...

God Bless Trooper Marc Diab ~ March 8th, 2009



It is with sadness to hear and post a an entry of a fallen soldier, and once again Canada comes together to grieve for our soldier, as his death brings much sorrow and sadness to the hearts and lives of his family, friends, military brothers and sisters in Afghanistan and Petawawa, and each and every member of the Dragoons as they travel this difficult journey together. I am proud of his service to our country and dedication in that which he believed in and fought for. Trooper Diab's mission is now complete. He is truly a Canadian hero and the world in which we live is a safer place because of his commitment to freedom. We will now proudly stand for him with honour, dignity, and respect. We pray that he will now rest peacefully in the arms of God. May He provide peace, comfort, and understanding to each life he touched.


Trooper Marc Diab
Our Canadian soldier was killed and four others injured when a roadside bomb exploded near their armoured vehicle while on patrol northeast of Kandahar city Sunday. Trooper Diab was participating in security operations in the Shah Wali Kot district (NE of Kandaher City) a mountainous region known as a Taliban transit point, at about 1:15 p.m. Kandahar time. when the armoured vehicle in which he was riding was hit. Trooper Marc Diab from the Royal Canadian Dragoons has been identified as the slain soldier. Diab, 22, was a member of the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, based out of Petawawa, Ont.
Four other Candian soldiers were injured and evacuated by helicopter to a medical facility at the Kandahar airfield. All were listed in stable condition last night but three will be evacuated to Germany for further treatment.
The incident occurred in the Shah Wali Kot district, When reporting from Afghanistan, the Globe and Mail's Gloria Galloway said that while all areas of the country are dangerous, the region the Canadian soldiers were killed in was considered "somewhat resistant" to the Taliban. Galloway said the area north of the incident is known as a "Taliban bastion" and the soldiers could have been going to or returning from that area.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper offered his condolences to the family of Diab. In a statement, the prime minister said Diab paid the ultimate price for serving his country.
He said Diab was an example of the "bravery and outstanding dedication" of the Canadian Forces. Harper also wished the injured soldiers a quick recovery.
Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance, the commander of Canadian troops in Afghanistan, said the young soldier died in "pursuit of a noble goal."
Vance said Diab was an "energetic, enthusiastic and dedicated soldier, who loved to joke around and make people laugh."
"His friends and comrades describe him as having a large heart for such a small guy. He would give you the world if he had it," he said.
Vance said Diab was very family-orientated and was extremely close to his mother and girlfriend.
"He was avid soccer player who loved sports and outdoor activities," Vance added.
He will be missed, but always remembered by all.



"Feeling lonely is only the first stop ... but getting to wait and knowing that your waiting to go back is the hard part ... I am coming back ... I promise ... cause I was born to be a soldier ... soldier of freedom" ~Trooper Diab


Kandahar Ramp Ceremony - He's Coming HomePadres and hundreds of soldiers line the runway at Kandahar airfield during the ramp ceremony of Trooper Diab. Looking at this photo, I notice a special Padre. He had approached me at Trenton during my son's deployment to speak to me -offering me many words of comfort. It is comforting in knowing he is there with our soldiers looking over them. Photo credit: Combat Camera



Comrades of Trooper Diab, carry him to his plane bringing him home. ~Photo credit: Combat Camera

Repatriation - He is coming home


Trooper Marc Diab, 22, of Mississauga, will be repatriated tentatively on: Wednesday, March 11. 2009 at CFB Trenton. The ceremony will begin in Trenton at 2 p.m., and is expected to begin its journey down the Highway of Heroes and through Northumberland County around 3 p.m. As is tradition, county highway overpasses will be full of supporters. Please come out to the overpasses and show your respect and support for the family of Trooper Diab as he travels his journey home.



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Condolences If you wish to post a condolence, please add it to the comments section and I will transfer them here:

May the family and friends of Marc Diab, in their sorrow, feel blessed that they shared in his life and by the joy he brought to them. Canada has lost a good soldier, he comrades have lost a good mate, no one can truly understand what his family has lost. My thoughts are with them. ~SusanE

RIP Marc, may his family be blessed with courage and love at this time! He was always a funny, caring guy...he will always live on in our hearts just the same! ~Anonymous


RIP Marc Diab from a friend of WO Dennis Brown. ~Anonymous




My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were deeply saddened to receive word of the death of Trooper Marc Diab with The Royal Canadian Dragoons, based in Petawawa, and of the injuries sustained by four soldiers from a roadside blast during their patrol in the Sha Wali Kot District, located north-east from Kandahar.
Despite the ever-present threat of violence and the inherent risk of the task at hand, our Canadian Forces members continue to pursue justice in a land scarred by violence and chaos. They believe that the Afghan people are entitled to the same dignity and freedom from fear we often take for granted, and which come at great cost.
Behind Trooper Diab stands the entire Canadian military family: mothers and fathers, wives and husbands, children and siblings, colleagues and comrades-at-arms. Today, we join with them and our thoughts are also with the injured. We wish them a swift and complete recovery. Rest assured that your sacrifices do not go unnoticed, and that your contributions will not be forgotten. ~Michaƫlle Jean ~ Governor General of Canada

"On behalf of Canadians and of the Government of Canada, I would like to offer my most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Trooper Marc Diab, who died while serving in Afghanistan. I also send wishes for a speedy recovery to his four fellow soldiers who were injured on patrol conducting security operations.Trooper Marc Diab paid the ultimate price serving his country. His life and death serves as an example of the bravery and outstanding dedication of Canadian Forces members on this mission..." ~ Prime Minister Stephen Harper

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith”. 11 Tim.1v:7my
Marc your devotion, faith, and zest for life is an example to all, keep smiling down on your family and friends.
To the family: A hero never leaves he lives in you. Always remember him and share his life with others. ~Anonymous
WE will always remember ur smile and sence of humour TROUGHOUT the hole camp and T.A group.... WE LOVE you SO MUCH!!!! R.I.P ...true ralph and my eyes u have been a hero AND we love YOU SOOOOOO MUCH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and like u keeped ur head up and was a rome model for us we will do the same for others !!!1 ~Anonymous

Wednesday, March 04, 2009

God Bless WO Brown, Cpl. Fortin and Cpl O'Quinn ~Tuesday, March 3, 2009

This morning I was awaken at 5:30 with tugging and a frantic voice.. "Wake up. three soldiers were killed. It's on the news." In distress, I flung the blankets and quickly found my Blackberry. Finding out that the soldiers' names were released, my thoughts quickly turned to their families. Still not knowing who they were I paced. Before long the little phone vibrated. The information was posted. It is now with sadness I share the information with you. With this I say a prayer for our Fallen - our brave, their families and friends here and in Afghanistan and to our injured.
To our fallen:-You have not died in vain- you have touched the hearts of the many people of Afghanistan in honour. You are a hero to all of Canada. To the families -these are diffucult days ahead. Be supportive toward one another. Honour them by reflecting on the very precious moments you each shared together. Share those moments with all that come to honour them, for they have touched many hearts. Never ever forgotten the ulitmate scarifice ever not today or all the tomorrow's. . I pray that the Lord hold you in the palm of his hand and give you his peace through your difficult journey ahead.

March 4, 2009
Three Canadian Forces Personnel Killed and Two Injured in Afghanistan
Three Canadian Forces personnel were killed and two were injured when an improvised explosive device detonated near an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred northwest of Kandahar City at around 5:40 p.m., Kandahar time, on 3

Bless WO Dennis Raymond Brown, Cpl. Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, and Cpl. Dany Olivier Fortin

3 March, 2009.
Killed in action were Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, from The Lincoln and Welland Regiment, Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin, from 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron at 3 Wing Bagotville, and Corporal Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, from 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Squadron.
Vance described Brown, a reservist with the Lincoln and Welland Regiment, as someone who "always had an infectious smile on his face, no matter what the challenge." The Niagara-area native leaves behind a wife and four children. In civilian life, he served as a police special constable. Fortin, an air force member based in Bagotville, Que., who's middle name was Olivier, was known to his comrades as Danny-O. He was an ardent fan of the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League.Vance said O'Quinn was "a proud, dedicated soldier, who had a bright future ahead of him." Known to his friend by his middle name, Chad, O'Quinn "believed he could accomplish anything in his life and everyone had the same faith in him," the general added
The soldiers were part of a quick reaction team that responded to a report of roadside bomb in the district, which is often used as a transit point for Taliban fighters coming down from the mountains towards the city.
"As they were returning from a call to clear an IED found on the road, their armoured vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb," said Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance, the commander of Canadian troops in Afghanistan.
The Canadian military, with the addition of surveillance helicopters and unmanned drones, have stepped up patrols looking for roadside bombs, which have accounted for more than half the deaths.
In the last three years, the Canadian battle group has only fought two major engagements in the Arghandab district, a lush farm valley that's divided by a river and isolated from the city by ridge of mountains.
Known as the northern gateway to Kandahar city, Taliban forces tried to take over the Arghandab in the fall of 2007 following the death of Mullah Naquib, a powerful tribal leader.
They were beaten back by Canadian troops.
And following last summer's attack on Sarpoza prison, hundreds of freed Taliban militants fled into the leafy growth and twisted laneways of the region, resulting in several pitched battles.

The injured CF personnel were evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at Kandahar Airfield. They are in good and fair condition, and their names will not be released.

We Learn About the Fallen and Grieve with Their Families: The wife of one of the three latest Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan said Wednesday she and her husband spoke often about the possibility he might die in the line of duty.
Mishelle Brown, the wife of Warrant Officer Dennis Brown, called her husband a hero and her "powerhouse."
Brown said her husband was a realist, and many times they discussed with their four children what they would do in the event of his death.
"I was expecting this," she said. "I was prepared for it. Dennis and I talked about it often."
Brown said she spoke with her husband for more than an hour the day he died from an roadside bomb blast in the Arghandab district.
"I never took Dennis for granted - not even for a second," she said.
Brown was a reservist with the Lincoln and Welland Regiment in southern Ontario who served as a police special constable in civilian life.
"He chose to go on this tour, and he fought really hard to get time off from his job with Niagara Regional Police to do it, and I supported him every step of the way - and I still do," his wife said.
"When I asked him why he wanted to go on this tour, Dennis said, 'If we don't get them in their backyard, they're sure to get us in ours.' "

Cpl. Kenneth O'Quinn. who was based at CFB Petawawa, On., was born in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, N.L., and spent his childhood there, the provincial government said in a release.
"Our deepest sympathies and prayers go out to the families and friends of these three valiant men," said Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams.
"Personally, and on behalf of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, I extend condolences to the family of Cpl. O'Quinn. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and those of his comrades."
29 Year old Cpl. Dany Fortin, an air force member based in Bagotville, Que.Fortin, had been in Afghanistan since last September and was set to return in April.
"He took to heart his job as a soldier," Lt.-Col. Paul Prevost told a news conference at CFB Bagotville, about 200 kilometres north of Quebec City.
"In Bagotville, as in Afghanistan, he was one of those whose leadership contributed to motivating his peers."
Prevost said he had met Fortin's mother and that his death was proving very difficult for her.
"But she was very proud of her son," he said. "Dany was doing what he had dreamed of doing."
Fortin was originally from Baie-Comeau, Que.
Brown called her husband her "dream come true."
"Nobody can take that away from me," she said. "No roadside bomb can take that away from me. It can take away my future with him but it can't take away my past."

Ramp Ceremony in Kandahar -They are brothers of the military. They trained together, travelled together, worked together, and come home together. They come home to their loved ones.

Padres and hundreds of ISAF soldiers line the ramp at Kandahar airfield showing their respects to their fallen comrades, their brothers. Photo credit: Combat Camera

Pallbearers carry their fellow comrades to the plane awaiting to take them home. Photo Credit: Combat Camera

Repatriation -They Are Home - CFB Trenton

Friends and family members of three Canadian soldiers who died this week in Afghanistan gathered together on a windy airfield Friday to attend a repatriation ceremony to bid farewell to their fallen loved ones. Warrant Officer Dennis Brown, Cpl. Dany Fortin, and Cpl. Kenneth O'Quinn were killed by a roadside bomb blast while patrolling near Kandahar city on Tuesday.Their bodies were brought to Canadian Forces Base Trenton on Friday. Strong winds blew on the airfield as dozens of family and friends hugged each other, sharing in their grief, many holding roses to their chests as they watched the ceremony. The three flag-draped coffins were carried by soldiers from the Hercules transport plane to waiting family members as bagpipes played.Brown's widow, Mishelle Brown, who spoke to the media earlier this week about how her husband was a "hero to his kids,"appeared strong on the tarmac but stumbled and broke down when her husband's coffin emerged. She was accompanied by her four children, who approached their father's coffin, also crying. Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) members were present for the repatriation ceremony on the tarmac at CFB Trenton on Friday afternoon, out of respect for Brown, who served as a special constable with the police service. Brown joined the NRPS in 2001 and was assigned to its court services unit. He continued to serve with the police service until taking a leave of absence to serve in Afghanistan last fall. Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Vice Admiral Denis Rouleau, vice chief of defence staff, were also scheduled to be on hand for the repatriation ceremony at CFP Trenton. After the repatriation ceremony, a convoy will carry the fallen soldiers' bodies to Toronto along the Highway of Heroes -- the stretch of highway between Trenton and Toronto. Two NRPS cruisers were scheduled to follow the procession to Toronto. Give them strength during their difficult journey ahead.

Mishelle Brown and her children watch as the flag draped casket of her husband Warrant Officer Dennis Brown is repatriated at CFB Trenton on Friday afternoon. Photo Credit: Pete Fisher

Children of Warrant Officer Dennis Brown approach the flag draped casket that, moments before his body was placed in a hearse at CFB Trenton. Photo Credit: Pete Fisher

The bodies of our fallen soldiers prepare to travel along the Highway of Heroes. Photo Credit: Combat Camera

Jenna Brown, age 12, daughter of fallen soldier Warrant Officer Dennis Brown looks out the limosine window waiting for the procession to start along the Hgihway of Heroes after the repatraition at CFB Trenton. Photo Credit: Pete Fisher

Note: Requests for support for WO Brown from MP Rick Dykstra in St Catharines about the funeral service for WO Dennis Brown on Saturday, March 14th at 2 pm.


Warrant Officer Dennis Brown - Ways to show support
In order to show support to the family of Warrant Officer Dennis Brown, who died in Afghanistan on March 3rd, we asking people to wear, wave or display yellow ribbons. We have lapel ribbons here at the constituency office, free of charge for people to stop by and pick up. If you have a tree in your yard, tie a yellow ribbon around it, or tie one to your car antenna. This show of support means a great deal to Dennis’ widow, Mishelle Brown and also to the members of the Lincoln and Welland Regiment. Mishelle is hoping to see lots of red as the motorcade arrives in St. Catharines. Let's show the Red Fridays colours for Mishelle.
Books of condolence will be available this week at 68 Church St. and the Robert S. K. Welch courthouse at 59 Church St. The public is invited to sign the book, which will be presented to his family.
A trust fund has been set up for the Brown Family through Meridian Credit Union, Ridley Square Plaza, 111 Fourth Ave, St. Catharines, ON, L2S3P5. Phone: 905 688.6563905.688.6563. Account # 3631959. Cheques may be made payable to "The Lincoln and Welland Regiment ITF Dennis Brown Family". Mail cheques directly to branch, or to the Lincoln Welland Regiment at 81 Lake Street, St. Catharines ON, L2R5X3.

Words of Condolence (if you wish to leave words of condolence, please post them in the comments section and I will transfer them below. Kindest Regards, M.M.)

  • May the men and women who serve be blessed.I think of all the fallen and especially those who died today. May their souls rest in peace knowing they have done their part in showing the people of Afghanistan that Canada does care for their plight.My thoughts and blessings to the family and friends, may they find peace in knowing that Canadians value their sacrifice. ~SusanE.
  • "Blessed are the peacemakers", comes to mind as I read about the three Fallen Canadians. Prayers go to the families and other loved ones. Please know that the rest of our country mourns with you. ~Ed Tokarchik
  • Heart breaking for the soldiers families...both civilian and military. They will not be forgotten. ~Anonymous

  • "To the family and friends of Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin, and Corporal Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, who died yesterday in Afghanistan, I offer my deepest condolences. Our entire country stands behind you in these most difficult and trying times. I also hope for a full and quick recovery for the two other Canadian soldiers injured in the attack.These soldiers served valiantly alongside their comrades while helping to build a stable Afghanistan. Our Canadian Forces members in Afghanistan face an enemy that will go to any length to undermine progress in building a democratic and self-sustaining society. The courage demonstrated by these soldiers speaks volumes to their dedication to Canada and to creating a better country for the Afghan people. The commitment of our service men and women to this goal is not diminished by these attacks. Their participation in the United Nations-mandated mission is a true reflection of Canadian values: helping those in need and defending the interests of Afghan citizens.We are making a difference and the Government of Canada stands proudly with the Canadian Forces as they strive to protect Canadians, our interests and our values. This is a tragic loss for the Canadian Forces and all of Canada. Let us never forget Warrant Officer Brown, Corporal Fortin and Corporal O'Quinn, whose sacrifices served to make life better for others.” ~ Prime Minister Stephen Harper

  • Jean-Daniel Lafond and I were deeply saddened to learn that the explosion of an improvised explosive device, 10 km away from Kandahar, took the lives of three Canadian soldiers and seriously injured two of their comrades during their mission in Afghanistan.
    Despite great personal risk, Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, from The Lincoln and Welland Regiment, Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin, from 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron at 3 Wing Bagotville, and Corporal Kenneth Chad OQuinn, from 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Squadron, joined forces with the Afghan people, who continue to be terrorized by a merciless violence. Our soldiers know better than anyone else that peace can never be taken for granted, that it must be built. With amazing courage, generosity and conviction they responded to the call of duty in an effort to bring peace to a country mired in conflict. It cost them their lives. They deserve our utmost respect.
    To all those who are mourning today—their parents, their families, colleagues and friends—we offer our most sincere condolences. May they know they are not alone. May they know that Canadians, from across the country, share in their sadness and their loss.
    Our thoughts are also with the injured soldiers who survived these attacks and with their loved ones, for whom the shock is equally deep. We are grateful for the vital role you play during this time of adversity, and send our hopes for a quick recovery.
    Michaƫlle Jean

  • "We grieve the loss of Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, Corporal Danny Olivier Fortin and Corporal Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, who died yesterday in Afghanistan. These brave soldiers were killed when the vehicle in which they were riding stuck an IED while on patrol near Kandahar City. I want to take to opportunity to wish a speedy recovery to the two soldiers who were injured in the same explosion.
    My heartfelt sympathies and thoughts are with the families and loved ones of Warrant Officer Brown, Corporal Fortin, and Corporal O'Quinn, who should be proud of the selfless sacrifice made by these brave soldiers. This is a tragic loss for Canada and for the Canadian Forces - but it was not in vain. Afghans are re-establishing themselves and their communities, and their lives are improving.
    These brave Canadian soldiers gave their lives helping to create the secure conditions needed for reconstruction efforts - building schools, hospitals and roads - to be successful in Afghanistan
    I join with Canadians and the Government of Canada in supporting our troops and those of our allies, who are helping create a better future for the Afghan people. We will honour the sacrifice of these brave soldiers by continuing our efforts to build a safe and secure Afghanistan." ~Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence

  • May Almighty God bless these fine heroes and bring comfort to the families who love them so. ~AM

  • Rest in peace men and know we will remember you. From a former airwoman with a son in the Lincoln and Welland Regiment. ~Penny Davis