General Hillier's Leadership

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Leadership
by Rick Hillier .
HarperCollins Publishers Ltd October 15, 2010 Hardcover
The following ISBNs are associated with this title:
ISBN - 10:1554684935
ISBN - 13:9781554684939

General Rick Hillier's views on leadership evolved over histhree decades as a soldier, first by watching many of hissuperiors make bad decisions, then by learning from the schoolof hard knocks as the head of emergency rescue operations inCanada and …+ read more
General Rick Hillier's views on leadership evolved over histhree decades as a soldier, first by watching many of hissuperiors make bad decisions, then by learning from the schoolof hard knocks as the head of emergency rescue operations inCanada and international task forces in eastern Europe andAfghanistan. Never one to be shy with his opinions, Hillier isas frank and straightforward in Leadership Matters as he is inhis #1 bestselling memoir, A Soldier First.

For Hillier, leadership is all about people -- embracing those in your charge and winning over those you need to work with -- not about risk aversion or management fads. Leaders think long, and have a vision. Their actions speak, not their words, and they make their own luck. But leaders also act out of moral courage, accept failure, take advantage of crisis and are perpetually optimistic.

General Rick Hillier's views on leadership evolved over his three decades as a soldier, first by watching many of his superiors make bad decisions, then by learning from the school of hard knocks as the head of emergency rescue operations in Canada and international task forces in eastern Europe and Afghanistan. Never one to be shy with his opinions, Hillier is as frank and straightforward in Leadership as he is in his #1 bestselling memoir, A Soldier First.

Leadership is an inspirational, easy-to-read and, in true Hillier fashion, always entertaining collection of principles that will challenge the way you run your business, start a project or take that next step in life.

General Rick Hillier Retires

It's 11:00 a.m. in Ottawa. It has just happened.. General Rick Hillier has retired.

Today is a sad day for many as General Rick Hillier retires from his position as Chief of the Defence Staff. Hillier was looked up to and loved by many - soldiers and families.
He always presented himself with a warm touch and always had kind words for the families back home supporting the troops overseas. I had had a dream - to one day meet this man.

I remember a couple of quotes by General Hillier:

When announcing the Military Family Fund:
"When our families call out for help, we must be able to answer that call immediately and substantially. Our families have been here for us through our enrolment, our training, our deployments, and our homecomings. The military life places significant demands on our loved ones. They did not volunteer for service – but serve they do, and with great distinction. It is our turn to be there for our families.”

Or the time Hillier addressed the families at the Roto 2 Medals Parade when he addressed the families:
“…We know that you are not volunteers and sometimes the load that you carry is much heavier indeed than what we bear. We cannot do our jobs without your support, without your courage, and without your inspiration and for that you have our absolutely deepest gratitude, our appreciation, and thank you very much for your support to all of the families who are here today. “

~ All the best on your retirement General Hillier.

Godspeed on your new journey.

From the many Military Moms, Dads, Wives, Husbands, children and families of your soldiers.

***Readers: WANTED - If you have a picture or a paticular memory of Gen. Hillier, send it onto me and I'll post it. militarymomathome@hotmail.com

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

Welcome General Walter Natynczuk

(o.k... it will take me some time to learn to spell his last name)

Now Retired Gen. Rick Hillier stands beside Gen. Walter Natynczyk at the changing of command ceremony in Ottawa on Wednesday, July 2, 2008.

Hillier handed over the reigns today to Lt.-Gen. Walter Natynczyk who succeeded him as Canada's chief of defence staff.
Early Wednesday, before the change-of-command ceremony in Ottawa, Hillier visited Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, a stop he said was the final leg in a tour of respect he has taken over the past month, visiting key burial sites of Canada's fallen soldiers.
"I wanted to complete that journey, if you will, by going by the national military cemetery this morning and just visiting and paying my respects to those young men and one young woman who are buried there and who have served their country and paid the ultimate price for it," he said. "It was something I wanted to do on my last day as chief of defence staff."
Hillier announced in April that he would be moving on after more than three years at the head of Canada's military.
The outspoken and charismatic general, who was known as "a soldier's soldier" by many of his troops, will become the chancellor of Memorial University in St. John's, N.L. as of July 3.
Losing 'soldier' status
He said the most difficult part of leaving the military will be losing his status as a soldier.
"I've been a soldier all my life, really," Hillier said.
"I joined the army as a boy, my wife and I were married quite young, we grew up in the army, and so leaving as a soldier, my goodness, this is an earth-shaking moment for us."
During his time in the post, Hillier oversaw Canada's role in Afghanistan and secured new money and new equipment for the military.
Retired Gen. Lewis MacKenzie said it was at a similar ceremony more than three years ago that Hillier set the bold tone for his term.
"When he took over he figuratively turned to the audience and said we need help, we need more money, we need more people. Everyone was aghast and thought that would be his last outburst," MacKenzie told Canada AM.
"Instead, it was the beginning of three and a half years of fine leadership where the morale of the Canadian Forces was really revitalized."
Hillier's successor
Hillier said Natynczyk is the perfect candidate to replace him as chief of defence.
"Walt is probably the best officer with whom I ever had the opportunity to work with," Hillier said.
"He's got incredible values, great experience, command time, international time, domestic time. My advice to Walter has been be yourself. You've got those great characteristics that led you to getting the appointment here today. He's a great leader and as I told him I'll be at his beck and call, or not, as he decides."
Natynczyk, who will be promoted from his role as vice-chief of defence staff, has been referred to as a "gentleman's soldier" by Defence Minister Peter MacKay.
He has acknowledged that Hillier will be a tough act to follow, but said he expects to put his own stamp on the military.
Shortly after his appointment was announced by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Natynczyk, who is affectionately known among the troops as "Uncle Walt," told reporters he was honoured to be selected as the new CDS.
"I'm looking forward to providing the leadership to the men and women of the Canadian Forces, providing security for Canada, for Canadians, and... for all those families of our military men and women," he said.
The change of command ceremony, which began at 10 a.m. ET, was presided over by Governor General Michaelle Jean.
JUST IN: Wednesday, July 2, 2008 1304
General Walt Natynczyk is officially the new Chief of the Defence Staff for the Canadian Forces. General Natynczyk was given the top command in a ceremony at Uplands presided over by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada. Prime Minister Stephen Harper, as well as Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay attended the ceremony."We are torn between sadness at bidding farewell to a general whom we greatly admire and joy at welcoming as the head of the Canadian Forces a generous man and a fine officer," said the Governor General. "These emotions speak volumes of the respect that we have for them both. A respect that resonates at all levels of Canada's military, from myself as commander-in-chief to soldiers of every rank and stripe to their families."The Canadian Forces have the important and challenging responsibility of protecting Canada and Canadians and contributing to international stability," said Prime Minister Stephen Harper. "It is critical that they have a Chief of Defence Staff that offers strong leadership and expertise.""General Natynczyk has the extensive knowledge and experience necessary to ensure our Canadian Forces continue their fine work into the future," said Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay.General Natynczyk takes over as Chief of the Defence Staff from General Rick Hillier, who assumed leadership in February 2005. General Hillier is retiring from the Canadian Forces after 35 years of dedicated service.

Lieutenant General Natynczyk Appointed as Chief of the Defence Staff

Our New Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)

Lieutenant General Natynczyk

The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement today appointing Lt.-Gen. Walt Natynczyk as the new Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS). The appointment will be effective following the Change of Command ceremony which will take place in the coming weeks."I am very pleased that the command of the Canadian Forces is now being passed to the very capable hands of Lt.-Gen. Natynczyk, said Minister MacKay. "Lt.-Gen. Natynczyk assumes the position at a very important time for the Canadian Forces. His leadership and experience will be invaluable as we continue to move forward with the Canada First Defence Strategy and our mission in Afghanistan. I have complete confidence in his ability to build on the foundation laid by General Rick Hillier."
Lt.-Gen. Natynczyk joined the Canadian Forces in August 1975. He attended Royal Roads Military College and College Militaire Royal in St Jean, graduating in 1979 with a degree in Business Administration. Upon completion of Canadian Forces Command and Staff College, he served on the Army Staff in St-Hubert, Quebec. Lt.-Gen. Natynczyk assumed the responsibilities of the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff on 28 June 2006."I'm deeply honoured to receive this appointment," said Lt.-Gen. Natynczyk. "It is truly a privilege to lead the men and women of the Canadian Forces who give so much to their country."General Hillier, who announced his retirement on April 15 after three years of being CDS, expressed confidence in Lt.-Gen. Natynczyk's ability to lead the Canadian Forces. "I have never worked with a finer officer than Lt.-Gen. Natynczyk. He has all the skills, experience and values to command the Canadian Forces and will have my full support. I congratulate him on his appointment and will hand over to him with the full knowledge that he will continue to adapt, and improve our Forces to accomplish the tasks Canadians need us to perform."


A native of Winnipeg, LGen Natynczyk joined the Canadian Forces in August 1975. He attended Royal Roads Military College and Collège Militaire Royal in St Jean, graduating in 1979 with a degree in Business Administration degree. His formative years were spent on NATO duty in Germany with The Royal Canadian Dragoons in troop command and staff appointments.
In 1983, LGen Natynczyk assumed duties as a Squadron Commander at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario. In 1986, he commenced a five-year regimental tour in Petawawa, serving in several staff and squadron command appointments; this tour included six months of UN peacekeeping duties in Cyprus. On completion of Canadian Forces Command and Staff College, he served on the Army Staff in St Hubert Quebec.
In May 1994, LGen Natynczyk embarked upon a year-long tour with the United Nations in the Former Yugoslavia as Sector South-West Chief of Operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina within HQ 7 (UK) Armoured Brigade, then as the Chief of Land Operations, UNPROFOR HQ in Zagreb, Croatia. In June 1995 LGen Natynczyk was assigned to the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff within National Defence HQ in Ottawa. He then commanded his regiment for two years, leading the Dragoons during domestic operations in the Ottawa region during the 1998 Ice Storm. LGen Natynczyk returned to Bosnia in 1998 as the Canadian Contingent Commander. On his return to Ottawa in March 1999 he was appointed J3 Plans and Operations during the period of deployments to Kosovo, Bosnia, East Timor and Eritrea.
LGen Natynczyk attended the U.S. Army War College and was subsequently appointed Deputy Commanding General, III Corps and Fort Hood. In January 2004, he deployed with III Corps to Baghdad, Iraq, serving first as the Deputy Director of Strategy, Policy and Plans and subsequently as the Deputy Commanding General of the Multi-National Corps (Iraq). Upon his return to Canada he assumed command of the Land Force Doctrine and Training System. He was subsequently appointed Chief Transformation where he was responsible for implementation of the force restructuring and the enabling processes and policies.
LGen Natynczyk assumed the responsibilities of the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff on 28 June 2006.
Yes boys.. it'a a fellow soldier!

They Are Home

The mournful strains of Amazing Grace mingled with traffic noise at a sombre repatriation ceremony Tuesday, November 20th, 2007 to honour the latest victims of Canada’s military effort to bring order to Afghanistan. With dignitaries and family on hand, the flag-draped coffins of Quebec-based Cpl. Nicolas Beauchamp, 28, and Pte. Michel Levesque, 25, were lowered from a military transport to waiting hearses.

"He will never cease to live among us and in our hearts," Levesque’s family said. "He will always be a hero to us."

Above: Military pallbearers carry the caskets of Cpl. Nicolas Beauchamps and Pte. Michel Levesque Jr. who were killed in Afghanistan on Saturday, during a repatriation ceremony at Canadian Forces base Trenton, Ontario, Tuesday November 20, 2007. Photo credit: Fred Chartrand

Beauchamp’s spouse, Cpl. Dolores Crampton, a medical technician based with the same unit, accompanied his body back to Canada. Crampton laid flowers on his coffin before returning to stand with Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier on the windswept runway. Also on hand was Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean and about 100 members of the public, who pressed against the fence that circles the base to watch the ceremony.

ABOVE: Chief of National Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hiller stands

with Cpl. Dolores Crampton, wife of Cpl. Nicolas Beauchamp.

Photo Credit: Fred Chartrand

"Nicolas was strong, generous, proud and convinced that he could make a difference in this world," the Beauchamp family said.

.

Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, Transport Minister Lawrence Cannon, Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and Industry Minister Jim Prentice bow their heads along with other Members of Parliament for a moment of silence in the House of Commons in Ottawa on Tuesday (Photo Credit: Tom Hanson)

Supporters were seen along overpasses of the Highway of Heroes, a section of the TransCanada Highway renamed in honour of Canada's fallen soldiers, as the hearses made their way to Toronto .

Veterans from the Trenton, Ontario area drape flags from an overpass as the motorcade carrying the caskets of Cpl. Nicolas Beauchamps and Pte. Michel Levesque Jr. drives by on the Highway of Heroes. (Photo Credit: Fred Chartrand)

Soldier Back on Canadian Soil

A Repatriation ceremony was held 02 September 2007 at 8 Wing / Canadian Forces Base Trenton for fallen soldier Major Raymond Ruckpaul.

Major Ruckpaul, an armoured officer based at the NATO Allied Land Component Command Headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany, was serving in Kabul, Afghanistan with the International Security Assistance Force Headquarters (ISAF). In attendance to pay their respect were the Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunites Agency, The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Rick Hillier and other dignitaries

Chief of Canada Defense Staff, General Rick Hillier, inspects a Canadian

flag belonging to Brenda Miller of Trenton Sunday afternoon at CFB Trenton.

Ms. Miller has placed the names of the 70 fallen Canadian armed Forces

personnel who died in Afghanistan.

Photo credit: Newsphotos.ca

CFB TRENTON, Ont. -- The shroud of mystery surrounding the death of a Canadian soldier found shot in a secure compound in Afghanistan persisted yesterday as his remains were returned to Canadian soil.
No further details concerning Maj. Raymond Ruckpaul's death were offered as a casket bearing his remains was returned to his family at Canadian Forces Base Trenton in eastern Ontario.
The 42-year-old father of two was found in his barracks Aug. 29 after being "significantly injured" by a gunshot wound. He died about an hour later.
Since then, family members have reported the military has offered no explanation as to how Ruckpaul died.
Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier were similarly tight-lipped at yesterday's ceremony, offering no comment on the soldier's death.
Both men addressed the dozens of civilians who had gathered to show their support and shook hands with them through a chain-link fence. Chief of Canada Defense Staff, General Rick Hillier, inspected a Canadian flag belonging to Brenda Miller of Trenton Sunday afternoon at CFB Trenton. Ms. Miller has placed the names of all 70 Canadian armed Forces personnel killed in Afghanistan on the flag. She brings the flag to every repatriation ceremony at CFB Trenton. Sunday, while Ms. Miller and others waited CFB Trenton to pay respects to Major Raymond Ruckpaul, General Hiller and National Defense Minister Peter McKay went to the base fence line to talk with the public. When the men turned to return to the base tarmack, the public applauded.
Four unidentified family members gathered on the tarmac as the plane baring Ruckpaul's body arrived. They walked slowly behind the casket as it was carried to a waiting hearse.
Ruckpaul lived in Germany with his wife and two children.
The Hamilton native joined the Armed Forces prior to studying geology at McMaster University.
At the time of his death, he was serving at the headquarters of NATO's International Security Assistance Force.
In earlier media reports, Ruckpaul was described by friends and neighbours as a man with heartfelt dedication both to his job and his family.
"He was such a loving person, especially with his kids," said Valerie Bianchetto, a 40-year neighbour of the Ruckpaul family.
"He was so happy about his family. He loved everything in his life."
Ruckpaul's cousin Leona said the family's struggle to come to terms with the soldier's death is exacerbated by the military's silence.
"Everyone's in a state of shock," she said.
"Nobody knows what happened. It will be a very long time before we really know the truth." ...

Red Rally at CNE in Toronto Honours Canadian Troops

Hillier, MacKay Among Dignitaries Thanking Crowd of Thousands for

Support of Military

Supporters sing O Canada during a support-the-troops rally in Toronto yesterday. The sight of hundreds of red-clad troop supporters at the Canadian National Exhibition was ''a visible show, a tangible show of support for our men and women in uniform,'' said Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier. Photo credit: Canadian Press

Canada's top soldier told cheering marchers in Toronto on Friday that their support for the military encourages Canadian soldiers who are enduring difficult and dangerous conditions in Afghanistan.
Gen. Rick Hillier was speaking at a massive rally at the Canadian National Exhibition fairgrounds, where hundreds of people turned out in red shirts to show support for the soldiers stationed overseas.
"What [this rally] does is convince them that when you're 12,000 kilometres away from home, and when you're on a dusty, and dirty and dangerous trail, and when you're walking that trail doing your mission, Canadians are walking with them," said Hillier, chief of defence staff.
"And as a result of this, maybe, just maybe, they'll do the same thing and accept the same risk again tomorrow and for as long as we need them to do the mission."
Hillier, who stood before the crowd with three wounded soldiers at his side, said the men and women serving in Afghanistan are aware of the rally and will be sent video images and pictures.

Afghanistan war veteran Master Cpl. Jody Mitic, centre, who lost his legs to a land mine, stands Friday at a rally to support Canada's troops with hockey personality Don Cherry, left, and police Chief William Blair, at Toronto's CNE. Photo Credit: Peter J. Thompson


Sharing a stage with the minister of defence, the head of the Canadian Forces and Don Cherry, wounded soldier Jody Mitic looked out to a boisterous crowd of people gathered for a Toronto rally in support of troops in Afghanistan and noted how times have changed.
"When (I) first joined in the mid-nineties, military and army were bad words," the 30-year-old master corporal from Brampton, who stepped on a land mine in the Panjwai district and now wears artificial legs, said later. "But now, everyone is supporting us. Makes it worth it, losing my legs and all."
The military estimated that 4,000 people attended the Red Friday Rally, held in the Canadian Forces display, at the Canadian National Exhibition Friday, which included addresses from Chief of Defence Staff General Rick Hillier and Defence Minister Peter MacKay, who said "we are doing this mission because Canadians care."
Some speakers alluded to the debate that surrounds the mission, which began in 2002.
"It is not my job, nor my responsibility, to articulate why we do certain missions but let me just tell you, as soldiers, we have to believe that there's a nugget of a mission before we will go out and do it," said Hillier. "Before we go on a mission where we risk life and limb, as our soldiers do every single day, we have to believe in the mission."
Hockey personality Don Cherry, who wore a red jacket, acknowledged that not everyone agrees with the war, "but when our troops are over there, we have to support them," he said.
The Red Friday campaign started in April 2006 to show support for the Canadian Forces. It encourages Canadians to wear a red article of clothing on Fridays to represent the blood that has been shed by soldiers. Since then, dozens of rallies have been held across the country.

Defence Minister Peter MacKay talked about the difference the Canadian military is already making in Afghanistan; boys and girls are able to go to school, women can work, he said.
"The rally today means so much to our troops, it means so much to the men and women who are working hard to protect us, to safeguard our freedoms and the lives of the people in Afghanistan and those who want to live in an open and free country like ours," he said.
MacKay then asked the crowd to cheer for the troops and pose for a photo that would be transmitted to Afghanistan. The crowd responded enthusiastically

Calling All Military Families....

RECRUIT THE NATION

LIVE BROADCAST & BBQ FUNDRAISER

In support of the Chief of Defence Staff Military Families Fund

Friday 29 June 2007

from 1000 to 1500 hrs

127 York Street

in the

Byward Market - Ottawa, ON

If you are unable to attend, phone or email and leave a message for your loved ones overseas!! (see the number/address below)
Military families.. this is a chance to reach out to our troops overseas!

98.5 The Jewel, radio station in Ottawa is answering General Hillier’s call to action. From the front steps of their station at 127 York Street, in the heart of the Byward Market, 98.5 The Jewel will kick off Canada Day with a Live Broadcast and Fundraising BBQ in support of the newly established Chief of Defence Staff’s Military Families Fund on Friday, June 29th from 10am to 3pm.

“Your efforts to support our troops in Afghanistan, and all our military families through your fundraising BBQ on the eve of Canada Day is a brilliant expression of support for our troops, and something that you well know is near and dear to my heart”

- General Rick Hillier, Chief of Defence Staff.

M&M Meats is providing the hamburgers for a minimum donation of $3.00. All proceeds from the sale of hamburgers will be donated to the Military Families Fund.

The live broadcast may be heard throughout the world through the Internet but more importantly it will be heard in Kandahar, Afghanistan – the broadcast will provide an opportunity to link deployed soldiers with their families here in Ottawa. Messages to friends or loved ones can be left :

on voicemail number: 613-241-4317 extension 2298

or can be posted/email to: recruitthenation@985thejewel.com

In attendance will be families of our deployed troops and celebrities.

Gen Hillier will be present at approximately 1330 hrs.

Repatriation of Master Cpl. Darrell Priede in Trenton

Thank you and bless you Master Corporal Priede for all you have done -you will never be forgotten - your legacy will live on forever. To his family and friends: please know that many share in the grief for Darrell - our fallen hero. Hold tight to your memories as they cannot be taken from you. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
With sincere sympathy-Military Mom

He's Home

CFB Trenton, Ont. - As the flag-covered coffin of Master Cpl. Darrell Priede descended from a transport plane Monday, a handful of military photographers could be seen with their cameras poised, documenting the final journey home of one of their own.
Under picture-perfect blue skies at this eastern Ontario military base, members of Priede's grieving family stood huddled together alongside members of Canada's military brass, including Chief of Defense Staff Gen. Rick Hillier and Minister of National Defence Gordon O'Connor.
The 30-year-old military photographer, who was based at CFB Gagetown, N.B., died last Wednesday when the helicopter he was flying was shot down in the volatile Helmand province in Afghanistan. He was photographing coalition forces trying to wrest control of a strategic valley from insurgents to pave the way for reconstruction.

As the eight pallbearers loaded the casket, Priede's wife Angela, who was standing nearby surrounded by family and friends, wiped away tears. Holding a red rose, she was the first to approach to say her final goodbye to her husband, who had been in Afghanistan for less than six weeks.
She leaned into the hearse for more than five minutes, leaning on her husband's coffin and crying inconsolably as her family circled around her, patting her on the back and embracing her.
Priede's mother, Roxanne, wiped away tears as she tightly embraced Angela and took her turn to say her goodbye.
Earlier this week, she said her son had volunteered to go to Afghanistan and was eager to document images of Canada's mission there. She also said he had believed he had one of the safest jobs in the country.
This was the second time Priede had been out photographing a combat mission.
On a number of military websites and blogs, those who knew Priede left messages for his family on Monday and remembered the soldier who was known among his colleagues for his photography and his desire to be among the soldiers.

Priede was born in Burlington, Ont., and raised in British Columbia.
He died along with five Americans and a Briton when the CH-47 Chinook they were flying in was apparently shot down west of Kandahar.
Priede was doing his job as a photographer for the Reginal Command South, which oversees multinational efforts in each of the five southern Afghan provinces.
He was killed during Operation Lastay Kulang, part of the offensive against the Taliban.

____________________________________________________

From left, Dalton Drew of Cobourg and Samantha and Alex Mackey of Grafton stood on the Ontario Street bridge, Cobourg bridge Monday evening to honour Master Corporal Darrell Jason Priede, Canada's fifty-sixth armed forces fatality in Afghanistan.

Honouring our Fallen Soldier
The procession of vehicles bearing Master Corporal Priede departed CFB Trenton around 5:15 p.m., passing through Cobourg just before 6 p.m. A Cobourg Fire Department truck and an estimated 35-45 people, many waving Canadian flags, were on the Cobourg bridge. As the gathering waited, there was a constant salute of horns, flashing lights and waves from vehicles passing below the bridge. In Northumberland County, people stand vigil on bridges spanning Highway 401 to honour the fallen military personnel and their families.

Further West on Hwy 401..
Police, fire, and ambulance crews paid tribute to fallen Canadian soldier Master Cpl. Darrell Priede yesterday by lining up on highway overpasses along Hwy. 401 and the Don Valley Parkway as his body was escorted by motorcade from CFB Trenton into the city yesterday to the coroner's office on Grosvenor St.
"We appreciate our people in uniform in Afghanistan and other places -- we appreciate the sacrifice they make and whenever possible we try to pay tribute to them whenever we can," said Toronto Police Sgt. Brian Bowman, who led the Toronto contingent of the motorcade.
Durham emergency crews also turned out as the motorcade passed through that region.
OPP vehicles lead the motorcade until Whites Rd. in Pickering when Toronto police took over, Bowman said.
"We're just typical Canadians trying to pay tribute in whatever way we can," Bowman said.

To leave a message or sign the memorial guest book for Master Cpl Priede, click here:

Or Click on the following link:
http://www.legacy.com/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=88513105

Photo by MCpl Darrell Priede - his legacy lives on:

Sergeant Jason Mcdonald, with the Force Protection Company out of Camp Nathan Smith (CNS), provides forward security while climbing a hill to a new guard tower point during a visit to Afghan National Police (ANP) Substation 7 in Kandahar City.

Photo by: MCpl Darrell Priede (God bless you)

Fallen Soldier is Returning Home

May 28, 2007
Our fallen soldier, Corporal Matthew McCully, a member of 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signal Squadron (2 CMBG HQ & Sig Sqn), based in Petawawa, Ontario, is scheduled to return home to Canada today.
Where: 8 Wing Trenton, Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ontario.
When: Monday, May 28, 7:30 p.m.
Present to pay their respects will be The Minister of National Defence, Gordon O'Connor, and other dignitaries.

Bless him on his journey home.

A further note: In Northumberland County, there will be people standing on bridges over Highway 401 at Colborne, Grafton, Cobourg and Port Hope to mark the passing of the hearse and escort vehicles.

9:01 pm

Canadian Soldier, Cpl. Matthew McCully was returned to Canadian soil to his family today at CFB Trenton during a repatriation ceremony.
A CC-130 Hercules aircraft carrying his remains touched down at the base just before 7:30 p.m.
The final note of the piper's skirl hung heavily in the still night air as eight Canadian soldiers carried the flag-draped casket of Cpl. Matthew McCully across the tarmac at this eastern Ontario military base.
Governor General Michaelle Jean, Cief of Defence Staff Rick Hillier and Defence minister Gordon O’Connor joined military officials and grieving relatives on the tarmac as McCully’s casket was carried from the aircraft by fellow soldiers. Just metres away, McCully’s mother, Valerie McGrady, locked arms with her daughter, Shannon, and her partner, Neil Weise. McCully’s younger brother, Daniel, stood beside them—solemnly staring into the open hearse. McCully’s father, Ron, wearing a white cowboy hat and dark sunglasses, clutched red and white roses. His wife, Michelle, hugged his left arm as his son’s casket was lowered into the hearse for the last leg of its journey home. McGrady knelt on the ground after placing a single red rose on her son’s coffin before military officials guided the family into three waiting black limousines. The limousines drove slowly from the tarmac—passing one large and half-a-dozen small Canadian flags placed on the base’s barbed-wire fence by Bob and Demetra Belear of Belleville, Ont.
Bob Belear said he and his wife have been to almost every repatriation ceremony at CFB Trenton, and he said they always hang the flags on the fence out of respect for the soldiers. “The flag is our country’s flag, and these men and women are serving our country,” he said. “When you see civilians on this side of the fence, it shows respect for the sacrifice they made.”

"Thank you Mr. & Mrs Belear" on behalf of military familes and friends.

"As well, thank you Mr. Don Cherry for your reflection during the hockey intermission in regards to Canada's fallen soldier- Cpl Matthew McCully."

Stanley Cup, Hockey Legends and Hillier Arrive in Afghanistan

Get Ready to Rumble!

Canada's Chief of Defence Staff General Rick Hillier, right, presents the Stanley Cup along woth General Tim Grant, left, former Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer Dave (Tiger) Williams, (centre), as they arrive at the base in Kandahar, Afghanistan Wednesday.

(Photo by: CP/Ryan Remiorz)

The Stanley Cup was brought to Afghanistan on Wednesday in an effort to boost troop morale, after Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier said some troops are "pissed off" about the attention given to detainee abuse allegations.
"Let me just come out very frankly here: I met a variety of soldiers who are pissed off," Hillier told reporters. "They're angry that these allegations have detracted from the overall mission here."
Hillier said the sentiments didn't apply to him because he never gets "pissed off."
He addressed the issue after arriving in Kandahar with a group of former NHL players and the Stanley Cup in a show of support for Canadian troops.
It was the first time the Stanley Cup has ever been taken to a war zone.
Enforcers Bob Probert and Dave (Tiger) Williams, goaltender Ron Tugnutt and former Montreal Canadiens stars Rejean Houle and Yvon Lambert were some of the former hockey greats who made the trip to Kandahar.

Two Canadian Forces Toronto Maple Leafs fans pose with the Stanley Cup at the Provincial Reconstruction Team base in Kandahar, Afghanistan on Wednesday, May 2, 2007.

(Photo by: CP / Ryan Remiorz)

The hockey legends were as eager to meet the troops as soldiers were anxious to have their pictures taken with the famous trophy. "I just want to sit down and hear some of their stories," said Probert.

"This is the cup that's coming back to Canada," Hillier said, a reference to the two Canadian teams left in the playoffs, the Ottawa Senators and the Vancouver Canucks. Soldiers posed for photos and chatted with some of the players, including goaltender Ron Tugnutt, two-time Cup winner Mark Napier and Montreal Canadiens legends Rejean Houle and Yvon Lambert.

Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier puts a playful headlock on Master Cpl. Mark Fedorchuk, from Saskatoon, as he obliges his request to have his picture taken with him.

(Photo by: CP/ Ryan Remiorz)

"I got the chance to be close to the Cup, take a picture with it - it was a great moment for me," said Cpl. Lisa-Marie Guernon, 29, from Montreal, a Canadiens cap on her head.
"Especially here in Afghanistan - those types of things are pretty special for us."
Hillier and the players arrived aboard a C-130 Hercules that performed a low, tight banking turn before coming in for a landing - an experience Tugnutt said he won't soon forget.
"It's a good thing I went to Disney last week with the family; it prepared me for the ride in," he said. "I went on all the big roller coasters, and that experience - plus a few Gravol - prepared me for that flight. It was very intense, actually, and (the soldiers) said, 'That was nothing'."
Tugnutt said he was thrilled to be asked to visit with the Canadians.
"When we were offered to come and do this, it was a great honour," he said. "To be able to come and experience this and meet the soldiers, it's been incredible - talking to them, hearing their stories."
Later in the day, the group travelled to Camp Nathan Smith, just outside Kandahar city, to visit with members of Canada's provincial reconstruction team, where they signed autographs and mugged for more photos.

The Nathan Smith troops – and in particular the Vandoos (The Royal 22nd Regiment), providing force protection at the base – huddled expectantly, for the cup's arrival.
Hillier, clearly beloved by the troops, gave another rousing address, first noting all the positive changes that had occurred since his last visit to the region in March, drawing attention to schools newly reopened in a district of the province that "was a battlefield last fall.
"The way you do your job, your professionalism, your dedication, your courage, makes it easy for me to go around Canada and say that your country needs to support you. And they do.''
Morale-boosting from the top of the command chain aside, it was otherwise hockeyhockeyhockey on this day.
Hillier drew cheers of approval by relating how U.S. air force personnel had, on Kandahar Airfield's tarmac, immediately descended on the cup for photographs. "I tell them: `I don't want you guys getting too comfortable with that damn cup now because it's coming back to Canada'."
The general, a passionate Maple Leaf fan from Newfoundland, also offered his services to either manage or coach the Toronto club, come yet another start-anew season. "I can lose seven games in October, too!''
For Tiger Williams, the one-time Leaf enforcer, this is a return Afghanistan engagement. This time he arrived in full combat fatigue kit, having bought his own uniform, rather larger in size than the uniform he wore as No. 22 in Toronto.
"It's an honour for all of us to come here and spend time with Canadian troops,'' said Williams, whose father and grandfather served in the military.
He then pointed out the parallels between soldiering and playing hockey.
"There's a lot of teamwork involved in both and accepting authority all down the line. You're only as strong as your weakest link.''
The alumni will play two ball hockey games against a Canadian soldier squad, starting this morning, with veteran broadcaster Brian Williams announcing the line-up. The ex-pros will also cook for the troops at a barbecue – a double beer ration per soldier for the special occasion.
The party of hockey players was welcomed to Kandahar by Gen. Tim Grant, commander of Joint Task Force Afghanistan.
"Tens of thousands of Canadians want to pass on their best wishes to you - their prayers, their thoughts, all of which are with you, and their immense appreciation for what you're doing here in Afghanistan," Hillier told the assembled soldiers.
"Everywhere you go in the country right now ... you'll see it, that Canadians, as never before in my life or my history or my time in uniform, support you."
Napier, who won a Stanley Cup with Montreal in his rookie season in 1979 and again with the Edmonton Oilers in 1985, said their trip was turning out to be no less a thrill for the players than it was for the troops.
"When we got word they were sending Team Canada over here, we put the word out to a few of the members of our alumni association, and we got about 15 or 20 calls right away from guys wanting to come over here," Napier said

"The next troop, we're going to have to fight them off with a stick, the guys who are going to want to come over here."
The players are set to face off Thursday morning in a ball-hockey game against a team of soldiers that Tiger Williams, for one, knows won't be easy to beat.
"These guys play for real, so it's going to be entertaining," chuckled Williams, a custom-made "Tiger" name tag on his military uniform.
"We've got Bob Probert on our side, though, so look out, you know?"
Hillier said he plans to suit up and play a shift on a line with both Williams and Probert.
Brig.-Gen. Tim Grant, the commander of Canadian forces in Afghanistan, said the visit would prove invaluable to the mood and morale of the soldiers, who braved 50 C temperatures Wednesday and are facing a long, hot summer ahead.
"From a morale standpoint, there is no equivalent to this," Grant said. "You can't put a price on it."

Excellent morale booster! Rock on Hillier!

Then, first off the bat, they all got on a bus and went to Tim Hortons.

Hillier Brings Stanley Cup and Former NHL'ers to Afghanistan

What a Great Morale Boost! A Big HUA for Hillier and the NHL!
Wednesday, May 2, 2007

He's everywhere. Last week in Petawawa at a homecoming for Roto 2- today Afghanistan.
Canada's chief of defence staff, Gen. Rick Hillier, arrived in Afghanistan Wednesday with former NHL players and the Stanley Cup.

Hiller arrived at the main Kandahar base with the former pros, who included Bob Probert, Dave (Tiger) Williams, Ron Tugnutt, Rejean Houle and Yvon Lambert.
Former NHL tough guys Williams, Probert and Maguire played in some hostile venues over the years, but none like this.

The three ex-NHLers are part of a entourage that arrived today for a week-long tour of Afghanistan, a trip that is scheduled to feature a ball-hockey game versus the troops.

"We're supposed to play the winners of their tournament," Maguire said. "Mostly, we're going to help lift the spirits of the soldiers.
"I was in the military myself for three years, so I jumped at the opportunity to go over there and say thank you to the troops."

The group of 32 also includes NHL alumni Mark Napier, Stew Gavin, Ron Tugnutt, Lou Franceschetti, Ric Seiling and Dan Daoust; Tom Anselmi, executive vice-president of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment; a representative of the Vancouver Canucks ownership group; and veteran broadcaster Brian Williams, now with TSN.

The endeavour has the blessing of the NHL.
"We thought it would be a great way to show our appreciation for all they do for us every day to protect our freedoms and safeguard our way of life," NHL vice president Bill Daly said via e-mail, referring to the troops.

"It is these people who really are the real-life heroes."
Maguire said the idea for the trip came up in the regular season when the Maple Leafs honoured a number of military members before a game at the Air Canada Centre.
Along with showing off the Stanley Cup, the group plans to play some hockey with some of the more than 2,000 Canadian soldiers stationed at the base.

Last month, the owner of the Ottawa Senators visited the base, donating $50,000 worth of hockey gear. Eugene Melnyk brought hockey sticks, pads and jerseys for the soldiers.
Playing and watching ball hockey is an important ritual for the Canadian troops in Afghanistan, with the teams playing for the Kandahar Cup, a pint-sized version of Lord Stanley's coveted trophy.
Playoffs are to begin this month, when temperatures in Kandahar climb well into the 40s

JTF Roto 2 Troops Honoured- Welcome Home!

Joint Task Force Rotation 2 Medals and Awards Parade

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Thursday, April 26, 2007 1300

During a nearly three-hour ceremony held on the Simmonds Parade Square in Petawawa, ON, the contributions of Joint Task Force Afghanistan Roto 2 were honoured through a medals and awards parade.

The event served as a proud reunion for soldiers of the second rotation, who returned home in February after being deployed last August and a gathering of families supporting one another, feeling the sadness of familes who lost their loved ones serving in Afghanistan.

It was 1255 hrs - the rain held up and the bleachers at Simmons Parade Square in CFB Petawawa were filled with family of soldiers of Joint Task Force Afghanistan Roto , when Sargeant Major Chief Warrant Officer Kevin Patterson assumed the parade.

Loking ahead was a sea of soldiers dressed in their dress uniforms, boots highly polished awaiting the presentation of honours and medals. To my left, seated beneath a canopy were the families of the fallen soldiers, 14 familes, many of us wished we could reach out and hug and let them know we have been and are there by their sides, grieving with them.

As well, seated beneath the canopy were some of the soldiers, injured while serving courageously overseas.

Sortly before 1300, officers marched onto the square to take up their positions in front of approximately 980 troops from the various units.

A 1305 hrs, JTF Afghanistan Roto 2 Deputy Commander (Colonel Fred Lewis) assumed the parade and we prepared for the arrival of the "higher ups"

Uon each arrival, the troops stood at attention, while spectators rose for the General salutes. Bagpipes sounded in the distance.

Ariving individually were:

• Commander Land Force Western Area (LFWA) Brigadier-General Mark Skidmore


• Commander Joint Task Force Central/Land Force Central Area (JTFC/LFCA) Brigadier-General Guy Thimbault


• Commander Land Force Doctrine and Training System (LFDTS) Major-General Stuart Beare


• Commander Canadian Expeditionary Force Command (CEFCOM) Lieutenant-General Michel Gauthier


• Chief of the Land Staff (CLS) Lieutenant-General Andrew Leslie


• Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) General Rick Hillier

Inpection of Parade by Reviewing Officer - Gen. Rick Hillier
The 14 Petawawa-based soldiers who have died in the line of duty in Afghanistan were and are not forgotten..
Following the arrival of several high-ranking military officials, Chief of Defence Staff General Rick Hillier took the microphone to make a special request prior to his inspection of the parade. "Ladies and gentlemen, this is a family event here today," he began. "We've got family on parade, family in the stands, but some of the folks that we want to be most inclusive of are missing on that parade so I would like to break a little with tradition. I would like to ask one member of their families to come and join me in the inspection of our soldiers so we have the family on parade." Every soldier would be represnted. In addition, he asked to be joined by the youngest wounded soldier not on parade that could still get up and move. The gesture was met with appreciative applause from the crowd as Petawawa has been particularly hard hit in Afghanistan. Fourteen of the 20 Canadians killed in Afghanistan since 2003 were stationed at CFB Petawawa. Gen. Hillier performed his inspection, followed by the family members from those soldiers who did not return from Roto 2. The family members held hands, some smiling proudly while others fought back tears.

The widows and family members stood up and slowly followed Gen. Hillier in groups of two and three, holding hands and wiping the tears brimming in their eyes, to a standing ovation as they made their way to the troops.

Pictured above: Cpl Kelly Dove and husband Warrant Officer Richard Nolan

-- Every time Cpl Kelly Dove was on parade, she'd sneak a peek to find her husband, Warrant Officer Richard Nolan, among those in formation on the parade square.
Yesterday was no different. With 980 soldiers from Joint Task Force Afghanistan Rotation 2 gathered at CFB Petawawa on the parade square where she and Nolan had marched before, the young widow, honoured to represent her husband, couldn't help but look and for fleeting moments she could have sworn he was among them. Nolan was killed last September 3, 2006, in a firefight west of Kandahar City.
Dove said it was an honour, but difficult. "I saw a lot of soldiers I hadn't seen since I was in Afghanistan. They're trying not to look at me, I'm trying not to look at them because we know we'll both cry."
Hillier saved his most poignant praise for the soldiers that did not return. "The soldiers that we have lost are the most special of all. Those are the sweaters that we will hoist in the arena in our minds, in our regimental histories. Our commitment to those families is that their footprint in the sand will never be erased. What they have helped accomplish on this earth will always be used to good effect and in our memories and in our actions, they will always live. To those families, God bless you and thank you for your contribution and for your sacrifice for Canada," he said

Campaign Stars:
Following on the emotions of the inspection came the presentations of the Campaign Star medals to soldiers and also the Wound Stripe to those wounded during the rotation.
Most of the soldiers were presented with the General Campaign Star, a medal given to all who fight against an armed enemy. Some soldiers had already received their medals prior to the ceremony,while serving in Afghanistan.
The Campaign Star recognizes military service in a theatre of operations in the presence of an armed enemy, issu This award has been created as a means to recognize those who serve in operations in the presence of an armed enemy. issued with bars identifying specific operations.

Carrying a Tray of Medals Picture by: Military Mom

Awarded to Canadian Forces members and members of allied forces working with the Canadian Forces who served with the Canadian contribution to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan for at least 30 days cumulative between 24 April 2003 and a termination date to be determined, in the theatre of operations which consisted of the political boundaries and airspace of Afghanistan

DESCRIPTION:
The Campaign Star is a gold-coloured four-pointed star, 44 mm across, representing the cardinal points of a compass bearing on the obverse, built-up in order from the back: a wreath of maple leaves terminating at the top with the Royal Crown, two crossed swords, the blades and hilts forming four additional points to the star, an anchor and a flying eagle. The wreath represents honour, the maple leaves represent Canada, the anchor, crossed swords and eagle represent the three services of the Canadian Forces and the Crown represents the Queen of Canada and her role as the fount of all honours. On the reverse appear within a raised circle, from top to bottom: the Royal Cypher ensigned by the Royal Crown, a plain space for engraving, and three maple leaves on one stem.
The ribbon passes through a ring attached to a small ball at the top point of the star.The ribbon is 32 mm wide with a central stripe of green (12 mm), on either side of which are stripes of white (2 mm) and red (8 mm). Red and white are the official colours of Canada as appointed by King George V in 1921 and green represents service.The bars to the Star are gold in colour with a raised edge and bear the name of the operation or the geographical area for which it is awarded.
The Star is engraved on the reverse with the service number, abbreviated rank, initials and surname of the recipient.

Wound Stripes & Wounded Soldiers:
Master Cpl. Jody Mitic lost his legs when he stepped on a landmine in southern Afghanistan in January.

Sapper Mike McTeague receives his ISAF Campaign Star from Gen. Rick Hillier

Picture by: Military Mom

Sapper Mike McTeague was touring a village near Panjwaii on Sept. 18, 2006, when he was caught in the blast of a suicide bomber. A ball bearing ripped through the back of his neck, and shrapnel through his side.

Sapper Mike McTeague receives his Wound Stripes from Gen. Rick Hillier

Picture by: Military Mom

The two soldiers of the 1st Battalion Royal Canadian Regiment -- Master Cpl. Mitic on prosthetic legs, Sapper McTeague leaning on crutches -- stood among 980 Canadian soldiers honoured yesterday at a homecoming and medal ceremony at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa yesterday for their services in Afghanistan

93 wounded Soliders prepare to receive their Wound Stripes

Picture by: Military Mom

Gen. Rick Hillier, chief of the defence staff, was there to help give out 93 wound stripes to honour soldiers like Master Cpl. Mitic and Sapper McTeague, who were injured during combat.

Gen Rick Hillier pins ISAF Campaign Star on soldier.

Picture by: Military Mom

"For me being able to come here, walk and see the guys, I wasn't here to get my wound stripe or a medal; I was just here to participate with all my friends," said Master Cpl. Mitic, who was the last soldier wounded during the mission, just six weeks before the others returned home.

Sapper Mike McTeague

Sapper McTeague, 21, was in Afghanistan for two months before he was injured and sent home. Four Canadian soldiers were killed in the same attack.
"I was mostly worried about the other guys," said Sapper McTeague. "They're like family."

Master Cpl Mitic during rehab.

Master Cpl. Mitic said the medal ceremony serves as a reminder of the sacrifice soldiers make.
"One thing about anyone getting hurt or killed in action, you're upset for a minute, but as a team you come together that much harder and carry on that much more," he said.Hemi Mitic, father of Master Corp. Jody Mitic, compared the parade to a graduation. "It brings it all to a conclusion," he said. "There's recognition for those who went over, recognition for those who were lost, recognition for those who were hurt and an opportunity for everybody (who's getting posted) to say goodbye. It's emotional, but it's also necessary." His son agreed. "This is closure to the mission."

Other Awards:
Some other awards were handed out during the ceremony. 1st Battalion Commanding Officer Lt.-Col. Omer Lavoie received the highest honour, the NATO Meritorious Service Medal for exceptional service to NATO, for his bravery and leadership during the mission.. The presentation was made by Gen. Hillier.

The Royal Canadian Regiment Cipher (VRI) was presented to E Battery, 2nd Regiment, The Royal Canadian Horse Artillery for the battery's distinguished service in support of the 1 RCR Battle Group in Afghanistan particularly during Operation Medusa. "E Battery will certainly always have an integral part of the history of the RCR, in particular the first battalion, and will always be welcome certainly within the lines of the battalion," said Lt.-Col. Lavoie, Commanding Officer 1 RCR.

FOLLOWING the PRESENTATIONS:
Following the presentations, Chief of Land Staff Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie shared a few words with the troops. "So when we look back, as you will start to do over the upcoming weeks and months, you will realize that you, each of you, as a team and as an individual, have made an enormous difference in this crucial conflict. You have helped the Afghan people to rebuild their shattered country and broken lives and you deserve the thanks of the army and the nation but above all you have helped to ensure that Afghanistan will never again be a safe haven for those who wish to prey on the weak and the innocent, our allies or indeed Canadians," he said.

Circle of Soldiers:
Following the presentations, Chief of Land Staff Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie shared a few words with the troops. "So when we look back, as you will start to do over the upcoming weeks and months, you will realize that you, each of you, as a team and as an individual, have made an enormous difference in this crucial conflict. You have helped the Afghan people to rebuild their shattered country and broken lives and you deserve the thanks of the army and the nation but above all you have helped to ensure that Afghanistan will never again be a safe haven for those who wish to prey on the weak and the innocent, our allies or indeed Canadians," he said.

Before making his remarks, Gen. Hillier drew cheers when he asked the soldiers to walk forward and form a loose semi-circle around him so he could see their faces.

"You know something, as I was standing there watching you approach, sitting there earlier on in the chair watching you on parade and getting a chance to do the inspection, you know what I was thinking? I wish all 33 million Canadians could be here today and see you. To see what incredible men and women they have in uniform. To see what imagination, intelligence and fitness and what absolutely outstanding values you have - values that you articulate every day in uniform by your actions - loyalty to our country, integrity, dedication and devotion and above all courage. A national treasure is what I would describe you as to those Canadians and they need to be very, very proud of you," he said. He praised the offensive work done by the battle group saying they put a vicious and violent enemy on its back foot. "Twelve ministers in the government of Afghanistan have told me that they believe Operation Medusa and your work and your courage and your valour saved the government of Afghanistan and the progress in that country made over the last five and half years. That's no small feat," he stated. He reminded the soldiers of the story of Vimy Ridge and said their efforts may be recorded in similar fashion when the history of Afghanistan is written. "Those men that went up the hill would be very proud, very pleased to know that you have taken the torch after them," he added.
He praised the offensive work done by the battle group saying they put a vicious and violent enemy on its back foot. "Twelve ministers in the government of Afghanistan have told me that they believe Operation Medusa and your work and your courage and your valour saved the government of Afghanistan and the progress in that country made over the last five and half years. That's no small feat," he stated. Hillier said when Afghanistan's history is written, this group's effect will be on par with the Battle of Vimy Ridge 90 years ago.
He reminded the soldiers of the story of Vimy Ridge and said their efforts may be recorded in similar fashion when the history of Afghanistan is written. (and we know who is currently writing this! :)
"Those men that went up the hill would be very proud, very pleased to know that you have taken the torch after them," he added. "When the history of Afghanistan gets written, for the troops in this battle who represented this great country the effect may be nearly the same as what the effect was from that Easter Sunday so, so long ago," he said.He saved his most poignant praise for the soldiers that did not return. "The soldiers that we have lost are the most special of all. Those are the sweaters that we will hoist in the arena in our minds, in our regimental histories. Our commitment to those families is that their footprint in the sand will never be erased. What they have helped accomplish on this earth will always be used to good effect and in our memories and in our actions, they will always live. To those families, God bless you and thank you for your contribution and for your sacrifice for Canada," he said.

General Hillier's Speech:

General Rick Hillier

Picture by: Military Mom

"I wish all 33 million Canadians could be here today and see you, see what incredible men and women they have in uniform," said Gen. Hillier.
Gen. Hillier likened the troops' bravery to that of the Canadian soldiers who fought at Vimy Ridge 90 years ago.
He praised the troops for their "loyalty to our country, integrity, dedication and devotion and above all courage."

To the Families:

Addressing families, Hillier said:
“…We know that you are not volunteers and sometimes the load that you carry is much heavier indeed than what we bear. We cannot do our jobs without your support, without your courage, and without your inspiration and for that you have our absolutely deepest gratitude, our appreciation, and thank you very much for your support to all of the families who are here today. “

Then quoting a poem given to Hillier from Michelle of New Brunswick he read:

You're Not Alone

You rise in the morning and face the day
You are not alone
When you’re on patrol and in harm’s way
You are not alone
When the goals of the mission seem impossible to keep
You are not alone
When you lie still at night and can’t fall asleep
You are not alone
We are with you, supporting you, praying for you
We are standing by you in our hearts,
We are loyal to you in our words,
You are a reason I can proudly say
I am Canadian.

That day, the sun may have touched the faces of our soldiers – (sunburns with white beret stripes) but their courage, commitment and pride – our soldiers - touched our hearts.’m proud of our soldiers, and I’m proud to be a Military Mom.