God Bless Cpl Martin Joannette July 6, 2009

Our hearts and prayers go to the family and friends of Cpl Martin Joannette during at this time and we think of them as they travel this difficult journey ahead.
His sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Cpl Martin Joannette July 6, 2009
Cpl Martin Joannette was killed on 6 July, 2009 in a Canadian CH-146 Griffon helicopter accident. The accident occurred at a Forward Operating Base in Tarnak Va Jaldak, Zabul Province, northeast of Kandahar City. Cpl Martin Joannette was from the 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment based at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier near Quebec City. He was serving as a member of the Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing at the Kandahar Air Field.

The Canadian Press reported Wednesday that the crash occurred when the helicopter, blinded by a dust storm, clipped a security wall. The military is currently investigating the exact cause of the crash. Joannette's family issued a statement Thursday saying his loss has left a huge void in their hearts. His wife, Marie Eve Dionne, recalled her husband's big smile and infectious sense of humour.

Joint Task Force Afghanistan (JTF-Afg) is the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the international effort in Afghanistan. Its operations focus on working with Afghan authorities to improve security, governance and economic development in Afghanistan.

JTF-Afg comprises about 2,830 CF members. Most of them serve at Kandahar Airfield or Camp Nathan Smith, the home of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Kandahar City. Members of JTF-Afg also work at various military headquarters and support bases in southwest Asia, and with civilian organizations in Afghanistan.

Le cpl Martin Joannette a été tué le 6 juillet 2009 dans un accident d’hélicoptère canadien CH-146 Griffon. L’accident s’est produit à la Base d’opérations avancées de Tarnak Va Jaldak, province de Zabul, nord-est de Kandahar City. Le cpl Martin Joannette appartenait au 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment, de la Base des Forces canadiennes de Valcartier, près de Québec. Il servait à titre de membre de l’Escadre aérienne de la Force opérationnelle Interarmées en Afghanistan à l’aérodrome de Kandahar. La Force opérationnelle Interarmées en Afghanistan (FOI-Afg) est la contribution des Forces canadiennes (FC) à l’effort international en Afghanistan. Ses opérations portent sur la coopération avec les autorités afghanes pour améliorer la sécurité, la gouvernance et le développement économique en Afghanistan. La FOI-Afg est composée d’environ 2 830 membres des FC. La plupart servent à l’aérodrome de Kandahar ou au Camp Nathan Smith, le foyer de l’Équipe provinciale de reconstruction(ÉPR) dans Kandahar City. Les membres de la (FOI-Afg) travaillent aussi avec des organisations civiles en Afghanistan dans divers quartiers généraux militaires et bases de soutien dans le sud-ouest asiatique et avec des organisations civiles en Afghanistan

Beginning the Journey Home
Comrades from Joint Task Force Afghanistan carry Cpl Joannette and MCpl Audet to an awaiting CC-130 aircraft for their repatriation back to Canada. The ramp ceremony was held at Kandahar Airfield, Kandahar, Afghanistan.

Jo (Joannett) and Pat (Pat Audet) "I will always remember".

For the second time in four days, families of fallen soldiers gathered on the tarmac at CFB Trenton for a sad farewell ceremony.
The remains of Master Cpl. Pat Audet, 38, of Montreal, and Cpl. Martin Joannette, 25, of St-Calixte, Que. -- both based at Valcartier, Que. -- died Monday when their Griffon CH-146 helicopter crashed near Khandahar City.
In written statements, both soldiers' families expressed their pride and asked for privacy.
"We gave him all of our support when he volunteered for this mission. He believed deeply in what he was accomplishing," said Audet's family.
From Joannette's: "His passing will leave a huge void in our hearts."
Three other Canadians were injured in the crash -- two have returned to duty and the third is in stable condition.

Ben Walsh, whose son Master Cpl. Jeffrey Walsh was killed in Afghanistan on August 9, 2006, said the repatriation ceremony is one of the most emotional times for a fallen soldier's loved ones and expressed his condolences to the Audet and Joannette families.
"Our soldiers are Canadian protectors and whether they're protecting Canada or they're on a mission, they're still fighting for us, for Canadians," Walsh told CTV News Channel on Thursday.
After the repatriation ceremony, the bodies of the two soldiers will be driven along the portion of Highway 401 known as the "Highway of Heroes," to the coroner's office in downtown Toronto.

Condolences
If you wish to leave condolences for the family of Cpl Joannette, please leave them in the comment section and I will transfer them below.

"I would like to convey my sincerest condolences to the families and friends of Master Corporal Pat Audet and Corporal Martin Joannette, who died as the result of a CH-146 Griffon helicopter crash. The accident occurred during take-off near a forward operating base in Tarnak Va Jaldak, Zabul Province, northeast of Kandahar City.I would also like to express my sympathy to the family and friends of the fallen ISAF soldier, killed in the same incident, and wish a quick recovery to the three Canadians injured.This tragedy demonstrates the great risks involved in this challenging mission.These courageous servicemen gave their lives to secure a brighter future for Afghan families and protect the values of freedom, democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law. Canada's collaboration and determination to contribute to this UN-sanctioned, NATO-led mission will not waiver.Canada and the Canadian people will always remember this tragic occurrence and we support all those bereaved in these difficult times."
Peter MacKay,
Minister of National Defence


"We were all deeply saddened to hear of the deaths of Master Cpl. Pat Audet and Cpl. Martin Joannette following a helicopter crash in Afghanistan, We grieve their loss and offer our heartfelt sympathies to their families and friends."
Stephen Harper
Prime Minister Canada


I very saddened that, once again in less than one week, two more precious Canadian lives have been lost in Afghanistan, this time in a tragic accident. Master Corporal Pat Audet and Corporal Martin Joannette were on duty in the Zabul province in southern Afghanistan when their helicopter crushed. My heart goes out to the families, friends and colleagues of the two brave Canadians. "At this difficult time, as the loved ones of these two young soldiers, and those of Master Cpl Charles-Philippe Michaud and Corporal Nicholas Bulger who lost their lives only a few days ago, I want the Canadian people to know that we in Afghanistan deeply value these sacrifices. While these soldiers have laid their lives in the service of their country, their service to cause of peace in Afghanistan will not be forgotten."
The Afghan people are grateful to the people of Canada for their support and friendship, together with other members of the international community. We depend on this friendship in order to overcome the forces of violence and terrorism within Afghanistan and beyond, and to provide a better, peaceful and prosperous future for our children.
Jawed Ludin,
Ambassador of Afghanistan in Canada

My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I have just learned of the tragic news of the helicopter accident that resulted in the deaths of two of our soldiers and a soldier in the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). Three Canadian soldiers also sustained injuries.
Master Corporal Pat Audet was member of the 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron and Corporal Martin Joanette was member of the 3rd Batallion, Royal 22e Régiment, both based at Canadian Forces Base in Valcartier. Neither the Afghan people nor our troops have enjoyed any respite from constant attacks and perilous conditions, yet in spite of it all our soldiers continue to give the best of themselves. This terrible accident now only compounds the grief that our great military family has already been feeling for several days.
On behalf of all Canadians, we would like to express our deepest sympathies to the family, friends and comrades in arms of Master Corporal Audet and Corporal Joanette. Their unwavering courage and invaluable contribution will never be forgotten. We are also sending our best wishes for a speedy recovery to our wounded soldiers. Our thoughts are with their loved ones in these difficult times. Our sympathies go out as well to the bereaved family of the ISAF soldier, for they are enduring the same sense of loss and grief.
Michaëlle Jean
Governor General Canada

God Bless MCpl Pat Audet July 6-09

Our thoughts and prayers go to the family, friends and comrades of MCpl Audet as they travel this difficult journey ahead. He will always be remembered. We will never forget your ultimate sacrifice. Your duty is done - You are now homeward bound.

MCpl Pat Audet July 6-09
MCpl Pat Audet was killed on 6 July, 2009 in a Canadian CH-146 Griffon helicopter accident. The accident occurred at a Forward Operating Base in Tarnak Va Jaldak, Zabul Province, northeast of Kandahar City. MCpl Pat Audet was from 430e Escadron tactique d'hélicoptères based at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier near Quebec City. He was serving as a member of the Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing at the Kandahar Air Field.

Joint Task Force Afghanistan (JTF-Afg) is the Canadian Forces (CF) contribution to the international effort in Afghanistan. Its operations focus on working with Afghan authorities to improve security, governance and economic development in Afghanistan. JTF-Afg comprises about 2,830 CF members. Most of them serve at Kandahar Airfield or Camp Nathan Smith, the home of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Kandahar City.
The Canadian Press reported Wednesday that the crash occurred when the helicopter, blinded by a dust storm, clipped a security wall. The military is currently investigating the exact cause of the crash.
MCpl Audet is survived by his wife, Katherine and family and friends.

Audet is being remembered by his family as a proud military man with an infectious smile.
Master Cpl. Pat Audet's death came as a major blow to his family who say he served his country with honour. In a statement, his family remembered his sense of humour, his love of travel, deep-sea diving and passion for war history. Relatives say he loved being a soldier and believed strongly in what he was doing in Afghanistan

Members of JTF-Afg also work at various military headquarters and support bases in southwest Asia, and with civilian organizations in Afghanistan.

Le cplc Pat Audet a été tué le 6 juillet 2009 dans un accident d’hélicoptère canadien CH-146 Griffon. L’accident s’est produit à la Base d’opérations avancées de Tarnak Va Jaldak, province de Zabul, nord-est de Kandahar City. Le cplc Pat Audet appartenait au 430e Escadron tactique d'hélicoptères basé à la Base des Forces canadiennes de Valcartier, près de Québec. Il servait à titre de membre de l’Escadre aérienne de la Force opérationnelle Interarmées en Afghanistan à l’aérodrome de Kandahar. La Force opérationnelle Interarmées en Afghanistan (FOI-Afg) est la contribution des Forces canadiennes (FC) à l’effort international en Afghanistan. Ses opérations portent sur la coopération avec les autorités afghanes pour améliorer la sécurité, la gouvernance et le développement économique en Afghanistan. La FOI-Afg est composée d’environ 2 830 membres des FC. La plupart servent à l’aérodrome de Kandahar ou au Camp Nathan Smith, foyer de l’Équipe provinciale de reconstruction(ÉPR), situé dans la ville de Kandahar. Les membres de la FOI-Afg travaillent aussi et avec des organisations civiles en Afghanistan dans divers quartiers généraux militaires et bases de soutien dans le sud-ouest asiatique.

Journey Home

Soldiers from Joint Task Force Afghanistan with sadness, carry the body of MCpl Audet to an awaiting CC-130 aircraft for his repatriation back to Canada. The ramp ceremony was held at Kandahar Airfield, Kandahar, Afghanistan. "It's with sadness that we bring them to their last flight," Lt.-Col. Marc Bigaouette, commander of Canadian Helicopter Force Afghanistan, said before the sombre ceremony. "They can leave Afghanistan with their heads up. They did an incredible service for their country.""We were all deeply saddened to hear of the deaths of Master Cpl. Pat Audet and Cpl. Martin Joannette following a helicopter crash in Afghanistan,"

Repatriation to Canada - families greet their loved ones

The bodies of two Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan earlier this week arrived back home on Thursday afternoon. Master Cpl. Pat Audet, 38, and Cpl. Martin Joannette, 25, arrived at CFB Trenton at 2 p.m. The families of the two soldiers were joined on the tarmac at the base by Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walt Natynczyk.
Audet served with the 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron and Joannette with the 3rd Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment. Both were based in Valcartier, Que.
Some of the people who turned out on bridges over the Highway of Heroes Thursday afternoon brought with them Quebec flags, to honour the returning soldiers.
The soldiers were killed Monday when their Griffon helicopter crashed northeast of Kandahar City. A British soldier was also killed and three other Canadian soldiers were injured.

Photo Credit: Peter Redman

Relatives and friends of Master Corporal Pat Audet pay their respects at the hearse carrying his body during a repatriation ceremony at CFB Trenton Ontario on Thursday July 9. 2009.

Comrades salute and bid farewell to MCpl Audet and Cpl Joannette at CFB Trenton, ON
Condolences
If you wish to leave condolences for the family and friends of MCpl Audet, please enter them in the comment section and I will transfer them below.

"I would like to convey my sincerest condolences to the families and friends of Master Corporal Pat Audet and Corporal Martin Joannette, who died as the result of a CH-146 Griffon helicopter crash. The accident occurred during take-off near a forward operating base in Tarnak Va Jaldak, Zabul Province, northeast of Kandahar City.I would also like to express my sympathy to the family and friends of the fallen ISAF soldier, killed in the same incident, and wish a quick recovery to the three Canadians injured.This tragedy demonstrates the great risks involved in this challenging mission.These courageous servicemen gave their lives to secure a brighter future for Afghan families and protect the values of freedom, democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law. Canada's collaboration and determination to contribute to this UN-sanctioned, NATO-led mission will not waiver.

Canada and the Canadian people will always remember this tragic occurrence and we support all those bereaved in these difficult times."

Peter MacKay,

Minister of National Defence and Minister

I very saddened that, once again in less than one week, two more precious Canadian lives have been lost in Afghanistan, this time in a tragic accident. Master Corporal Pat Audet and Corporal Martin Joannette were on duty in the Zabul province in southern Afghanistan when their helicopter crushed. My heart goes out to the families, friends and colleagues of the two brave Canadians. "At this difficult time, as the loved ones of these two young soldiers, and those of Master Cpl Charles-Philippe Michaud and Corporal Nicholas Bulger who lost their lives only a few days ago, I want the Canadian people to know that we in Afghanistan deeply value these sacrifices. While these soldiers have laid their lives in the service of their country, their service to cause of peace in Afghanistan will not be forgotten."The Afghan people are grateful to the people of Canada for their support and friendship, together with other members of the international community. We depend on this friendship in order to overcome the forces of violence and terrorism within Afghanistan and beyond, and to provide a better, peaceful and prosperous future for our children.

Jawed Ludin,

Ambassador of Afghanistan in Canada

My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I have just learned of the tragic news of the helicopter accident that resulted in the deaths of two of our soldiers and a soldier in the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). Three Canadian soldiers also sustained injuries.
Master Corporal Pat Audet was member of the 430 Tactical Helicopter Squadron and Corporal Martin Joanette was member of the 3rd Batallion, Royal 22e Régiment, both based at Canadian Forces Base in Valcartier. Neither the Afghan people nor our troops have enjoyed any respite from constant attacks and perilous conditions, yet in spite of it all our soldiers continue to give the best of themselves. This terrible accident now only compounds the grief that our great military family has already been feeling for several days.
On behalf of all Canadians, we would like to express our deepest sympathies to the family, friends and comrades in arms of Master Corporal Audet and Corporal Joanette. Their unwavering courage and invaluable contribution will never be forgotten. We are also sending our best wishes for a speedy recovery to our wounded soldiers. Our thoughts are with their loved ones in these difficult times. Our sympathies go out as well to the bereaved family of the ISAF soldier, for they are enduring the same sense of loss and grief.
Michaëlle Jean

"We grieve their loss and offer our heartfelt sympathies to their families and friends."

Prime Minister Stephen Harper

God Bless Cpl. Martin Dube - Sunday, June 14th 2009

Our hearts are heavy as we learn the news of a fallen Canadian Soldier. 35 year old Cpl Martin Dube was killed Sunday afternoon in southern Afghanistan, when the roadside bomb he was trying to defuse exploded 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City. Cpl Dube served with the 5e Regiment du Genie de Combat, the combat engineer regiment based in Valcartier, near Quebec City.

Corporal Martin Dubé

Corporal Dubé was responding to a call to neutralize two IEDs when one of them exploded.Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade during this very difficult time.
Un soldat des forces canadiennes a été tué suite à l’explosion d’un engin explosive improvise (EEI). L’incident s’est produit dans les environs du district de Panjwayi, à environ 20 km au sud-ouest de Kandahar City, vers 12 h 30, heure de Kandahar, le 14 juin 2009.A été tué au combat le caporal Martin Dubé du 5e Régiment de génie de combat basé à la Base des Forces canadiennes Valcartier près de Québec. Il servait à titre de membre du Quartier-général de la Force opérationnelle Interarmées Afghanistan. Le caporal Dubé répondait à un appel pour neutraliser deux EEI lorsqu’un d'eux a explosé.

Comrades Say Goodbye

More than 2000 soldiers and civilians alike gathered at Kandahar Airfield on Monday night to pay their respects to Cpl. Martin Dubé as his body began its final journey home.

His casket was loaded onto a transport plane in an evening ramp ceremony.
"In his desire to make a difference, he gave his life suddenly, without warning," Padre Bastien Leclerc told the crowd assembled on the tarmac.
"We will all miss his infectious smile, his determination, and his will to make this part of the world a better place to live."
The 35-year-old soldier was remembered during the sombre nighttime ceremony as a likable soldier with a special ability to lift the spirits of those around him.
"Cpl. Dube had a personal mission: live life to the fullest and make everyone he met laugh," Padre Bastien Leclerc, Task Force Kandahar's senior chaplain, told attendees who stood at attention as Dube's casket was loaded onto a Hercules transport plane. "He lifted the morale of everyone around him, including his superiors. His enthusiasm and energy was contagious."
Maj. Leclerc praised Dube as a talented combat engineer proud of his profession and whose work saved many lives.
"God of all life, you see tonight, all gathered to say farewell to our fallen comrade Martin Dube," Leclerc said. "In his desire to make a difference, he gave his life suddenly, without warning. We will all miss his infectious smile, his determination and his will to make this part of the world a better place to live. Now we have to let him go. He is going back home with his loved ones. But in our faith, we are confident that you have welcomed him in your presence."
Lt.-Col. Mike Gilmore, chief engineer for Task Force Kandahar, said before the ceremony that Dube came to Afghanistan with a sincere desire to help others.
"He will be remembered as an energetic soldier with an infectious smile," Gilmore said. "He was a pleasure to work with."
In a statement released Monday, Dube's family praised his commitment to the Afghan mission.
"He always strived to help others and that can explain why he firmly believed he was making a difference with the Afghan people alongside his fellow soldiers," the statement read. "We can't help but support and admire such altruism."
Dube was raised in the Quebec City area and he leaves behind his parents, brother and girlfriend.
"There is no greater sadness for parents than to lose a child. Martin was an upright, curious and intelligent person who liked to get to the bottom of things," the family said, noting he was very close to his younger brother.
"Your departure leaves a great void. Go, son, you can rest in peace now," the statement said.

Dubé is survived by his parents Marie-Paule and Roger, brother Vincent and girlfriend Julie.

REPATRIATION (He's coming home)
The tentative date and time of repatriation at CFB Trenton is 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 17. After the ramp ceremony at the armed forces base, the procession will move out to travel the Highway of Heroes to Toronto. Please join others in standing on the overpasses and honour our fallen soldier for his brave committment and let's show the Dube family we support them and stand with them. Wear red and wave your flag proudly in his honour. Chimo Cpl Dube.

WORDS OF CONDOLENCE: If you wish to leave words of condolence for Cpl Dube, please post them in the comment section and I will transfer below:

It is with profound sorrow that I learned of the death of Corporal Martin Dubé, today in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones as they deal with this tragic loss. I also want to offer my sympathies to the friends and family of the Afghan police officer who was killed and a quick recovery to the Afghan interpreter injured in this incident.Our UN-sanctioned, NATO-led mission in Afghanistan remains a challenging one. The mission poses many risks to the members of the Canadian Forces, but the Government of Canada and its international allies are committed to helping the people of Afghanistan rebuild their country. Canadians know their brave men and women in uniform are resilient and continue to make a difference in a very challenging environment.All Canadians will remain eternally grateful for the sacrifices made by Cpl. Dubé. He will not be forgotten."
Peter MacKay,
Minister of National Defence

My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Corporal Martin Dube, who died as a result of the detonation of an improvised explosive device, 20 km of Kandahar City. Corporal Dube was a member of 5e Regiment de genie de combat, based at Canadian Forces Base ValcartierWith a deep sense of duty and unfailing commitment, he risked his/her life to defend the values we hold dear. With determination and selflessness, he spared no effort to ensure the safety of the Afghan population who, legitimately and more than anything else, aspires to security, justice and equality. His daily dedication in this dangerous assignment deserves our unconditional admiration.We join all Canadians in offering our sincerest condolences to his grieving family, fellow members of the Canadian Forces, and all those who loved him. It is our hope that your memories of him and the time you spent together comfort you in your grief. May the memory of his inner strength help you rely on your own.
Michaelle Jean

Five generations of my family have served in the military. We have all lost friends in the service of our country. On behalf of my family, please accept our condolences for your loss and our thanks and respect for your sacrifice. ~ Annonymous

We Remember Cpl. Etienne Gonthier

With sadness, I announce the name of a fallen Canadian Soldier.

At approximately 1:40 p.m. local time (in Kandahar) yesterday, one Canadian soldier, Cpl Etienne Gonthier, 21 year old, of 5th Combat Engineer Regiment based in Valcartier (Quebec) was part of a team of sappers conducting route clearance ahead of a convoy was killed when the armoured vehicle he was in struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED), 35 km South-West of Kandahar City in the Panjwaiyi District.

Two Canadian soldiers were also injured. The injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Multinational Medical Unit at Kandahar Airfield. They are in good condition and have returned to duty. They have completed next of kin self-notification.

Canada has lost a fine Canadian - a brave soldier.

My thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of Cpl. Gonthier , and with his family - his comrades in Afghanistan. The courage and dedication demonstrated by Cpl. Gonthier in his efforts to assist the Afghan national security forces represent Canadian values in the finest tradition. He will be greatly missed.

God Bless you Cpl Gonthier - "Chimo"

Military Mom

Statement by the Minister of National Defence The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:

"It is with great sadness I learned yesterday of the death of Sapper Etienne Gonthier in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are also with his two comrades who were also injured in the explosion. Friends and families are foremost in our thoughts in these trying times.Our Canadian Forces are making an immense sacrifice to bring security, democracy and self-reliance to the people of Afghanistan while protecting Canada's values and security.These brave soldiers were part of a convoy traveling through the Panjwayi District of Kandahar Province. Efforts in this region are aimed at creating the conditions for reconstruction and development efforts to flourish in a country ravaged by decades of conflict.The United Nations-mandated mission is making a difference in Afghanistan and we stand proudly with our Canadian Forces members as they strive to bring safety and stability back to people of Afghanistan.Their sacrifice will not be forgotten."

RAMP CEREMONY - His Military Family Says Goodbye

Hundreds bid farewell to Cpl. Etienne Gonthier today. The soldiers saluted the man, called Jellybean by friends, as his body was escorted up the tarmac by eight of his brothers-in-arms.
"It is important to remember he did not die a victim but as a success in the profession he chose,'' said Padre Capt. Claude Pigeon.
The 21-year-old was killed Wednesday by a roadside bomb in the volatile Panjwaii district.
Padre Pierre Bergeron called on Gonthier's friends and family to stay strong despite the tragedy.

REPATRIATION - He's Home:

Photo Credit: City News

About 150 people lined up along the fence at CFB Trenton Saturday to watch the repatriation of Cpl. Etienne Gonthier.

The laughter and chatter among the crowd came to an abrupt halt at 2 p.m. when a CC-150 Polaris Airbus carrying Gonthier's remains touched down.
Many of those standing along the fence didn't even know the name of the soldier whose return had prompted them to gather, but all said they were there for the same reason: to show support and to show compassion for Gonthier's family.
"I've always wanted to come to one to show my respect," said Diane Langabeer of Picton, Ont.
"I want to show respect not only for the soldier but to the families that have lost their son or daughter."
Langabeer placed a small Canadian flag on the chain-link fence separating her from the repatriation ceremony. The flag, she explained, belonged to a friend's father who was a war veteran.
'HE DIED FOR HIS COUNTRY'
"The 150 people in attendance hopefully shows the family that Canadians do care and feel empathy when a soldier returns home in the same fashion as Gonthier," Langabeer said. "It's like they haven't died in vain."
Lise Belanger, a Trenton resident whose husband is in the military, was also attending a repatriation for the first time.
She said she too wanted the family to know their loss is recognized by others and their sorrow is understood.
"He died for his country, for liberty and peace," Belanger said.

Our Thoughts and Prayers are With the Family and Friends of Trooper Renaud

Canadian Soldier Killed and One Other Wounded in Afghanistan


At approximately 7:15 a.m. local time (in Kandahar) on January 15th, one Canadian soldier was killed when the armoured vehicle he was in struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED). One Canadian soldier was also injured.The identity of the deceased soldier is Trooper Richard Renaud, 26 years old, of the 12e Regiment blinde du Canada based in Valcartier, Quebec.The incident occurred during a presence patrol in the Arghandab District, approximately 10 km North of Kandahar city. The injured soldier was evacuated to the Multinational Medical Unit at Kandahar Airfield. The injured soldier is in good condition, has notified his family and is expected to be released from the hospital shortly.

The thoughts and prayers of the men and women of the Canadian Forces go out to the family and friends of Trooper Renaud.

Message from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General of Canada, on the Death of Trooper Richard Renaud
It was with great sadness that my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I heard of the death of Trooper Richard Renaud, whose vehicle hit an improvised explosive device during a patrol north of Kandahar City.He will be sorely missed by all of his colleagues from the 12e Regiment blinde du Canada, Valcartier, where he was based.All Canadians join me in offering sincere condolences to his family and friends, who are still reeling from the shock of this news. Please know that we grieve with you during this difficult time.We also wish a full recovery to his comrade, who was injured in the same incident.Canadians know the efforts being made by our troops to bring peace, security and stability to Afghanistan, and they honour the commitment of Trooper Renaud, who gave his life for this ideal.
Michaelle Jean

Statement by the Minister of National Defence

The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:"We mourn the death of Trooper Richard Renaud who died today in Afghanistan. We also extend our wishes for a prompt recovery to the soldier who was injured in the same incident. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their friends and families at this difficult time.These soldiers were participating in a patrol in Arghandab District when the vehicle they were traveling in struck an Improvised Explosive Device.I join with Canadians who stand proudly with our men and women of the Canadian Forces as they courageously risk their lives every day to bring peace and security to the people of Afghanistan. The sacrifices of these soldiers will not be forgotten and this event will not deter us from continuing to help Afghans rebuild their country."Trooper Richard Renaud was a member of the 12e Regiment blinde du Canada, 5e Groupe-brigade mecanise du Canada, based in Valcartier, Quebec.

From Military Mom

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Trooper Richard Renaud both here and overseas. He is a true inspiration and hero to all. God Bless.

Message from the Dion Family- "Extremely Proud of Our Son.."

Canadian Forces soldiers salute as the coffin bearing the body of Gunner Jonathan Dion is loaded on a plane during an early morning ramp ceremony Monday at Kandahar airfield in Afghanistan.Photograph Courtesy of: Cpl. Daniel Merrell, Department of National Defence


The family of private Jonathan Dion killed in service in Afghanistan on December the 30th 2007, wishes to make public the following declaration:

It is never easy for parents to lose a child. We are devastated by the death of Jonathan who, with dignity, gave up his life serving his country with honour and pride alongside his brothers in arms in Afghanistan. We are extremely proud of our son and of what he accomplished during his life including his career in the Canadian Armed Forces. It will be his distinctive smile and his joie de vivre which will remain in our minds as we think of him. He loved being a soldier and loved being in the company of brothers and sisters in arms.
Jonathan had found his rightful place in the Canadian Forces. He was maturing rapidly and showed that he was living life to the fullest and was developing his full potential. He was an example to all of his family and he was a great brother. Since he passionately believed in his mission in Afghanistan we supported him when he volunteered for this mission. Quite recently he was telling us he would like to return should there be a second tour.
Jonathan lived the major part of his life in the city of Gatineau. He loved his city, his small part of the country, and his neighbourhood. He wanted more than anything else to make a difference in the world around him. He died doing what he loved best, to be a soldier and serve his country.

Repatriation

Lise Marcil, mother of killed soldier Jonathan Dion, is consoled by friends and relatives during a ceremony for her son at CFB Trenton on Wednesday. I cannot imagine the anguish she is feeling - my heart cries for her and Jonathan Dion's family at this time. My prayers are with you.

The body of Gunner Jonathan Dion, a soldier from Val-d'Or, Que., who was killed in southern Afghanistan, arrived at a military base in southeastern Ontario on Wednesday.
A transport plane carrying Dion's body unloaded the flag-draped coffin around 2 p.m. ET at Canadian Forces Base Trenton. Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Gen. Rick Hillier, Canada's chief of defence staff, joined Dion's family in a repatriation ceremony.
In a statement issued Monday, Dion's family said they were devastated by his death.
"It will be his distinctive smile and his joie de vivre which will remain in our minds as we think of him," said the family.
"He loved being a soldier and loved being in the company of brothers and sisters in arms."

Canadian Soldier Killed - Four Others Wounded in Afghanistan

He Is Coming Home

It is with sadness that we announce another fallen Canadian soldier, especially at a time when people are celebrating the incoming of the New Year to which Gunner Dion was enroute to KAF (only 20 kms away) to join his fellow soldiers in doing so as well. God Bless.

December 30th, 2007 - At approximately 9:10 a.m. local time (in Kandahar) today, one Canadian soldier was killed when the Armoured Vehicle he was in struck a suspected Improvised Explosive Device. Four other Canadian soldiers were also injured.The incident occurred during a routine patrol, approximately 20 km West of Kandahar city, in the Zharey District. Helicopters were used to evacuate the soldiers to the Multinational Medical Unit at Kandahar Airfield. The wounded soldiers are in stable condition and have contacted their families.
The identity of the deceased soldier is Gunner Jonathan Dion. Gunner Dion was 27 years old and a member of 5th Regiment d'Artillerie legere du Canada, based in Valcartier, Quebec.

The thoughts and prayers of the men and women of the Canadian Forces and families of soldiers go out to the family and friends of the Gunner Dion.

To Send Condolences to the Dion Family or View the Guest Book, click below:

http://www.legacy.com/can/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=100433258

Statement from the Minister of National Defence
The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier and the wounding of four others in Afghanistan:"I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Gunner Jonathan Dion, who was killed today in Afghanistan. I also wish a quick recovery to the four other soldiers injured in this incident.Gunner Dion was an exceptional Canadian who deserves the utmost gratitude and respect of this nation. This is a tragic loss for Canada and the Canadian Forces.

These soldiers were participating in a patrol in southern Afghanistan when their armoured vehicle struck a suspected improvised-explosive device. The patrol was part of Canada's efforts in this region aimed at creating the conditions necessary to allow reconstruction and development in a country devastated by decades of war and turmoil."


My further note:
In some reports I have heard, they have reported him as being a reservist and not "full time". Let me set this straight. This was not the reason of his demise. Gunner Dion was a SOLDIER.. trained and prepared to expectations of the Department of Defence...leaving his career, job, his family, his friends on hold while serving overseas with all and alongside all... his military family.

En Francais..

Fin d’année difficile pour les militaires de Valcartier en Afghanistan. Un autre soldat québécois, l’artilleur Jonathan Dion, âgé de 27 ans, a été tué dimanche par l’explosion d’une bombe artisanale. Quatre autres militaires ont aussi été blessés.
L’accident est survenu peu après 9h dimanche matin, à 20 km à l’ouest de Kandahar dans le district de Zhari. Les militaires prenaient place à bord d’un T-LAV, un blindé léger sur chenilles, lors d’une patrouille de routine lorsque le véhicule a roulé sur un engin explosif. Les militaires ont été évacués par hélicoptère et transportés à l’hôpital de la base militaire de Kandahar, où le soldat Dion est décédé peu après son arrivée. Les blessés sont quant à eux dans un état stable et ont pu téléphoner à leur famille. L’un d’eux a même reçu son congé de l’hôpital.Jonathan Dion, du 5e Régiment d’artillerie légère, s’était enrôlé dans les Forces armées canadiennes en janvier 2005, a indiqué dimanche Bruno Tremblay, officier d’affaires publiques à la base de Valcartier. Il s’était envolé pour l’Afghanistan en août et en était à sa première mission à l’étranger. Le jeune homme, né à Val d’Or, en Abitibi, a par la suite grandi à Gatineau. La famille n’a pas encore indiqué quelles informations elle souhaitait divulguer sur leur proche, a ajouté le lieutenant Tremblay.La mort de ce soldat porte à 74 le nombre de militaires canadiens tués en Afghanistan depuis le début de la mission, en 2002. Les derniers décès dans les rangs des soldats de Valcartier remontent à la mi-novembre, au moment où deux militaires ont perdu la vie lorsque leur véhicule blindé a roulé sur un engin explosif. Depuis le déploiement des troupes de Valcartier cet été en sol afghan, six militaires québécois y ont perdu la vie.«Nous sommes attristés par la perte tragique de notre frère d’armes», a déclaré le brigadier-général Guy Laroche, à la base de Kandahar. «Nous porterons le deuil. Nous l’honorerons et nous le garderons dans nos mémoires. Ce faisant, nous continuerons, avec la même résolution, notre mission d’aider le peuple afghan à trouver la paix et la stabilité.»À la base militaire de Valcartier, un communiqué a été émis dimanche en fin de journée. «Nous avons perdu plus qu’un collègue aujourd’hui, nous avons perdu un frère, a déclaré le lieutenant-colonel Dany Fortin, commandant du 5e Régiment d’artillerie légère. Nos cœurs sont avec la famille et les amis de ce brave soldat. Nos esprits se portent par ailleurs vers nos collègues toujours présents en Afghanistan qui, professionnels et fiers, continuent à aider les Afghans au quotidien.»Comme à l’habitude dans ce genre de circonstances, le premier ministre Stephen Harper a transmis ses condoléances à la famille du soldat Dion par voie de communiqué, tout comme le ministre de la Défense, Peter MacKay. Le premier ministre Jean Charest a quant à lui tenu à souligner «le courage et la bravoure de ceux et celles qui servent en Afghanistan pour venir en aide aux
populations».

REPATRIATION:
The repatriation ceremony for fallen Canadian soldier Gunner Jonathan Dion, 27, of 5th Régiment d'Artillerie légère du Canada, based in Valcartier, Québec is tentatively scheduled for:

Wednesday, Jananuary 2nd, 2008

2 p.m.

at CFB Trenton

In attendance will be General Rick Hillier and Defence Minister Peter MacKay.
Please join in honouring Gunner Dion on overpasses along the Highway of Heroes (Hwy 401 west of Trenton to Toronto)

Families are the Unsung Heroes

On Saturday evening, the prime minister spoke on the importance of soldiers' families at CFB Valcartier, near Quebec City.
"Our troops get the strength they need for the hard, dangerous work we ask them to do from the support they get back home," Harper said in a brief speech to open a fundraiser for the base's family resource centre.
"So, my job, and our government's job, is to support the families just as much as we support the troops." Prime Minister Stephen Harper today attended a fundraising event for military families at CFB Valcartier, home base of the Royal 22nd Regiment that now leads the Canadian mission in Kandahar, Afghanistan. The fourth annual Criée d'automne includes a dinner, silent auction and raffle that raises funds for the Valcartier Military Family Resources Center.Speaking at the dinner, Prime Minister Harper called the families of soldiers serving in Afghanistan “the unsung heroes of Canada’s mission. The strength of the support back home is one of the main reasons our troops are world-renowned for their skill, courage and professionalism.” Prime Minister Harper said. “I’ve talked to soldiers deployed overseas and I can tell you they all feel better over there, knowing their families are being taken care of back here by organizations like Military Family Resources Center. The Canadian Forces really are a family, and a family takes care of its own.”

"Thank you Prime Minister Harper!"

Harper also said Canada's international reputation has grown since it began security and reconstruction work in the volatile regions of southern Afghanistan.

Peter MacKay

In response to Anti-war protesters marching across Canada to denouncing the Afghan mission, Defence Minister Peter MacKay said the very fact the demonstrations could take place Saturday indicated why Canada should be taking part in the Afghan mission.
"This is exactly the type of freedom and expression that we enjoy in this country, that we're able to demonstrate, that we are hoping to establish in a place like Afghanistan,"

The minister said the presence of Canadian troops creates security, which is directly related to promoting democracy, including freedom of expression.
"I implore people who are out in the streets and who are expressing themselves to keep in mind that were we to follow that direction (to withdraw the troops), Canada, in my view, would be stepping away from the very rights they hope to demonstrate."

MCpl Christian Duchesne August 22, 2007

Photo credit : Cpl Martin Long

MCpl Christian Duchesne was killed on 22 August, 2007 after the vehicle he was traveling in, a LAV III, struck a suspected mine. The incident occurred at 6:19 am Kandahar time, approximately 50 km West of Kandahar City during Operation EAGLE EYE, a joint Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) and ISAF operation aimed at further stabilizing the District of Zharey. MCpl Duchesne was a member of 5e Ambulance de campagne, based in Valcartier, Québec.

My deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends here and overseas. ~ m.m.

To view or sign the guestbook for MCpl Duchesne's family,

Click here:

Here Come Our "Fighting Van Doos"

Quebec soldiers headed for Afghanistan in the coming weeks turned to hamburgers and hotdogs Thursday to try to counter mounting opposition in the province to their deployment.Close to 1,200 soldiers, many of them from Quebec City’s Royal 22nd Regiment, gathered in a downtown park for a tailgate party ahead of a Montreal Alouettes pre-season football game.
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Sporting their desert fatigues, the troops then marched into nearby Molson Stadium to sing the national anthem.The activities marked the latest in a series of public events aimed at drumming up support for the troops’ mission in the hostile reaches of southern Afghanistan, where three Canadian soldiers were killed earlier this week."This is a voluntary deployment," said Chaplain Charles Deogratias, who will be among those deployed. "The soldiers who are going now have the privilege to change somebody’s life."

Protesters mailed 3,000 letters to soldiers and their families this month urging them to refuse to go to Afghanistan, while an antiwar coalition plans to demonstrate during a military parade on Friday in Quebec City.

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(O.K....I ask.. where did the protesters get this information?? - names, addresses..)

Capt. Louis Charland pointed out that part of their job is securing that same right to disagree in Afghanistan."We live in a democracy here and one of the things we’re doing over there is trying to allow people over there to do the same thing, express their opinions," he said. Let them protest, says the military. "This is a democracy," said Capt. Mathieu Dufour, spokesman for the base. "Soldiers have laid down their lives on the front lines for democracy."

Others claimed the increasingly vocal opposition would do little to change their mindset."I’m ready to go, we’re ready to go, and I don’t think it will change our way of thinking," said Warrant Officer Nicolas Cote.

Deogratias says the overriding feeling among the troops is more one of excitement and anticipation than of concern over public opinion."We’ve been preparing now for over a year," he said. "It couldn’t be a better time because everyone is ready."Charland, however, admits that nerves have been an issue."I would be lying to you if I said I didn’t worry about the risks that are part of this," Charland, 25, said. "But you have to be brave and go in there and see what happens."

Small numbers of the Royal 22nd Regiment, the province’s legendary "Fighting Van Doos," quietly deployed to Kandahar last December. This time, there is nothing quiet about the deployment of 2,000-plus Van Doos throughout July and August.

Our best to our "Fighting Van Dos!" Godspeed.

The Next Rotation of Canadian Troops is Ready to Undertake their Mission in Afghanistan

Photo by: Cpl Simon Duchesne DND Taken May 15, 2007

May 18, 2007
Wainwright, Alberta — Some 2,500 soldiers, who will be the next group of Canadian troops to deploy to Afghanistan, have just completed a very important phase in their training this week at Base Wainwright, Alberta.
The soldiers, who come primarily from Base Valcartier, Quebec, participated in complex military manoeuvres during Exercise Maple Guardian, an activity focused on individual and collective training for the Joint Task Force scheduled for deployment to Afghanistan this Summer.
The soldiers will be tasked to aid Afghan authorities in restoring the security and stability within Afghanistan, a nation on the verge of recovering from decades of warfare and strife. According to Joint Task Force Commander, Brigadier-General Guy Laroche, “Our soldiers have received an excellent training. The exercise, which we just completed, represents the last step in a long road, whose aim was to provide the soldiers with the technical, cultural and intellectual skills necessary to successfully accomplish, with the least possible risk, this very important mission,” he said. “The exercise provided us with the confirmation that we are ready, and I am convinced that we will brilliantly fulfil this mandate, confided in us by the Canadian public, to help better the lives of the Afghan people,” he added.