Bless Our Fallen Soldiers

I shall continue posting throughout this article.

“Where can I go from your spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even then your right hand will guide me your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, ‘Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me, even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day for darkness is as light to you.” ~Psalm 139
As they prepared for their return to Canada today, September 03, 2008 I share the sad news with you that 3 of our Brave Canadian Soldiers were killed and 5 were injured today after an insurgent attack on their armoured vehicle while they were conducting a security patrol in Zharey district at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time, on September 3, 2008. The fallen soldiers are: Corporal Andrew Paul Grenon, Corporal Michael James Alexander Seggie, and Private Chadwick James Horn. All three soldiers were infantrymen with the Second Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba.The injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Multi-National Medical Facility at Kandahar Airfield. One soldier is in critical condition, one is in serious, but stable condition, two are in good condition, and one has been treated and returned to duty. (The identities of the injured soldiers are not released.)

"The brave soldiers killed today were coming to the end of their tour and it saddens me to think of their loved ones awaiting their return later this month," Brig. Gen. Denis Thompson said.
He released few details about the attack in Kandahar province, except to say the soldiers were not killed by an improvised explosive device, but by a rare direct attack at about 9:30 a.m. local time.
Thompson did say, however, that the soldiers fire back with small arms and other weapons.
Of the five soldiers wounded in the attack, one is in critical condition, one is in serious but stable condition, two are considered to be in good condition and one has been treated and released, Thompson said.
He had kind words to say for each of the soldiers.
Seggie "often made himself the brunt of jokes just to get a laugh out of his section," Thompson said. "He was a great communicator and had learned several Pashtun phrases in order to work better with the local population.
Seggie was from Winnipeg and his family issued a statement Wednesday saying, "We love Mike very much and we are proud of all that he has accomplished. Mike was very proud of his service and believed in what he was doing."
"Mike loved life and lived it to the fullest, there was never a dull moment when Mike was around. He enjoyed driving his 1968 Baraccuda and showing it off any time he had the chance.
"He was the best son/brother/uncle anyone could have ever asked for."
Known to his friends as "Drew" or "G," the 23-year-old Grenon was on his second tour of duty in Afghanistan.
"He brought confidence to those around him and inspired the first-tour guys, making them feel safe," Thompson said.
Seggie "often made himself the brunt of jokes just to get a laugh out of his section," Thompson said. "He was a great communicator and had learned several Pashtun phrases in order to work better with the local population.
The 21-year-old, who was considered "cool under fire" came from a long line of "proud Princess Patricias" as both his father and uncle served with the battalion.
Horn, 21, had "unlimited potential and was admired by his peers," Thompson said.
"Many in his company saw him as the best LAV gunner," Thompson said, referring to the light armoured vehicle used by Canadians. "His ability to act under fire saved many lives during the tour."

Bless our Fallen Soldiers, and their families and friends both here and in Afghanistan .. and protect and watch over our injured, giving them strength for a strong recovery. ~ Military Mom

'I am proud of the way he died.': Theresa Charbonneau, Cpl. Andrew Grenon's mom

Corporal Andrew Paul Grenon was killed on 3 September 08 after an insurgent attack on his armoured vehicle while conducting a security patrol in Zharey district at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time. Corporal Grenon was an infantryman with the Second Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba.

"You can only do so many practices without playing a game," "This is our turn to play the game. Let's drop the puck. Let's throw the ball. Let's start it up. It's kickoff time, baby." -

~A.Grenon before going to war

Le Caporal Andrew Paul Grenon a été tué le 3 septembre 2008 lors d’une attaque menée par des insurgés contre son véhicule blindé pendant qu’il effectuait une patrouille de sécurité dans le district de Zharey à environ 9 h 30, heure de Kandahar. Le Caporal Grenon était un fantassin au sein du 2e Bataillon, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry basé à Shilo, au Manitoba.

"Why We Fight"

Written by Cpl. Andrew Grenon

"I've often asked myself why we are here. Why my government actually agreed to send troops to this God-forsaken place.
"There are no natural resources. No oil, gold, or silver. Just people.
"People who have been at war for the last 40 plus years. People who want nothing more than their children to be safe. People who will do anything for money; even give their own life.
"I look into the eyes of these people. I see hate, destruction and depression. I see love, warmth, kindness and appreciation.
"Why do we fight? For in this country, there are monsters. Monsters we could easily fight on a different battlefield, at a different time. Monsters that could easily take the fight to us.
"Surrounding these mud walls and huts is a country in turmoil. A country that is unable to rebuild itself. A country that cannot guarantee a bright future for its youth.
"Why do we fight? Because, if we don't fight today, on THIS battlefield, then our children will be forced to face these monsters on our own battlefield.
"I fight because I'm a soldier.
"I fight because I'm ordered.
"I fight, so my children won't have to."

(Grenon had written this poem during his 2006 tour of duty in Afghanistan)

Thank you D.B. for sending it onto me.

The city of Windsor has ordered flags at half-mast and will create a book of condolences for the family. Staff at St. Joseph's high school reacted with shock and sadness Wednesday, when they learned their former student had been killed in Afghanistan.
Principal Mike Seguin said Cpl. Andrew Grenon displayed his leadership abilities early on. Seguin said staff and students said prayers Wednesday for Grenon, and a special prayer service is scheduled at the school Sept. 12.
The news on the second day of school was made even more poignant by the fact Grenon's 14-year-old brother has just started Grade 9 at St. Joseph's. Counsellors will be available for students, said Seguin. "Certainly, we're going to honour his life here. He was a real leader," Seguin said. "He paid the ultimate sacrifice."

Corporal Michael James Alexander Seggie was killed on 3 September 08 when an unknown explosion detonated near his armoured vehicle while conducting a security patrol in Zharey district at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time. Corporal Seggie was an infantryman with the Second Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba.

Le Caporal Michael James Alexander Seggie a été tué le 3 septembre 2008 lors d’une attaque menée par des insurgés contre son véhicule blindé pendant qu’il effectuait une patrouille de sécurité dans le district de Zharey à environ 9 h 30, heure de Kandahar. Le Caporal Seggie était un fantassin au sein du 2e Bataillon, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry basé à Shilo, au Manitoba.

"For those I love I will sacrifice."

Private Chadwick James Horn was killed on 3 September 08 after an insurgent attack on his armoured vehicle while conducting a security patrol in Zharey district at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time. Private Horn was an infantryman with the Second Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba.

Le Soldat Chadwick James Horn a été tué le 3 septembre 2008 lors d’une attaque menée par des insurgés contre son véhicule blindé pendant qu’il effectuait une patrouille de sécurité dans le district de Zharey à environ 9 h 30, heure de Kandahar. Le Soldat Horn était un fantassin au sein du 2e Bataillon, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry basé à Shilo, au Manitoba.

Ramp Ceremony - Kandahar, Afghanistan - "They are coming home."
September 4th, 2008

"We are the Dead.

Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved,

and now we lie

In Flanders fields."

As thousands of soldiers began shuffling off the tarmac at Kandahar Airfield following an evening ramp ceremony for three fallen Canadians, Pte. Glen Kirkland slowly rolled up to the belly of the Hercules transport plane and carefully pulled himself out of his wheelchair.
Walking up the 45 degree incline into the cargo bay where the caskets of 23-year-old Cpl. Andrew Grenon, Cpl. Mike Seggie, 21, and Pte. Chad Horn, 21, sat wrapped in Canadian flags appeared to be a challenge for the injured soldier, but missing out on a final farewell clearly wasn't an option.
Kirkland and four others were injured in the assault and likely owe their lives to many of the 24 teary-eyed pall bearers who carried the caskets and who are typically drawn from the platoons of the fallen.


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Repatriation into Canada at CFB Trenton, ON - They Come Home into the Arms of Their Families and Friends

Saturday, September 6th, 2008 at 6 p.m. at CFB Trenton.

The grief was audible at CFB Trenton Saturday night as three families, united by their losses, gathered for the return of three young men killed in an ambush in Afghanistan.

More than 100 family members of Pte. Chad Horn and Cpls. Andrew Grenon and Mike Seggie lined the tarmac for the repatriation ceremony. Loud sobs could be heard from where they stood as first of the flag-draped caskets was lowered from the military aircraft.
The families took turns placing individual roses, some red, some yellow like the “Support Our Troops” ribbons that adorn many cars on the caskets carrying the remains of their sons and brothers.

The parents of Corporal Michael Seggie - Jim Seggie and his wife Shirley, right - along with other family members view the hearst carrying the casket of the soldier during a ceremony Saturday in Trenton, Ont (Photo credit: Canadian Press)

Colonel in Chief of Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, as well as fellow soldiers.
In an unusual scene for a repatriation ceremony, troops returning from Afghanistan, some of whom would have fought alongside the fallen soldiers, shared the plane with their remains. The 108 soldiers, based in Edmonton and Shilo, Man., stood in tribute to Cpl. Seggie, Pte. Horn and Cpl. Grenon for the ceremony, then were welcomed home by Mr. MacKay and Ms. Jean, after serving about seven or eight months in Afghanistan. They were to head west to their home bases later Saturday night.

Grief cried out as Cpl Grenon was lowered onto the tarmac at CFB Trenton.

Photo Credit: Pete Fisher

Family members cried, looking as though they might have collapsed to the ground if not for the both physical and emotional support provided by the rest of the family. Young children, visibly stricken by grief, clutched teddy bears and were comforted by others.
The families were joined on the tarmac by dignitaries including Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean, Defence Minister Peter MacKay, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Walter Natynczyk and former governor general Adrienne Clarkson, Colonel in Chief of the soldiers' regiment, the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry.


Honouring our soldiers and families were hundreds of people standing on many of the overpasses over the 401 between Glen Miller Road in Trenton and the Don Valley Pkwy Toronto. "We wear red in support and wave a flag to show the families how much we care for them during their difficult time. It's moment that will stay with you forever."

Our Condolences
Place your condolences for our soldiers families and friends in the Comments section below and I will repost them here:
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My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I are dismayed by the tragic news of the death of Corporal Andrew Paul Grenon, Corporal Michael James Alexander Seggie, and Private Chadwick James Horn of the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Manitoba. All three, along with five of their comrades, were on patrol in their vehicle when they came under attack. We are deeply saddened that once again, such grief weighs heavily on the greater military family and on all of Canada.
This tragedy reminds us of how dangerous the conditions are and the relentless aggression that our military men and women face while on this mission. In spite of the recent attacks, Cpl Grenon, Cpl Seggie, Pte Horn and their comrades demonstrated outstanding professionalism and loyalty. Always ready to serve, they fully understood how vital their support is to the humanitarian efforts in the communities of Kandahar province, where insecurity and violence are daily realities.
From the very bottom of my heart and on behalf of all Canadians, I offer my sincerest condolences to the family, friends and comrades in arms of Cpl Grenon, Cpl Seggie, and Pte Horn. We know that your sorrow is inconsolable, and we wanted to reassure you that their courageous and invaluable contribution will never be forgotten. We also wish the five wounded soldiers a full recovery, and extend our full gratitude to our troops stationed in Afghanistan, whose sense of duty remains as steadfast as ever.

Michaëlle Jean

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"Family and friends have been giving the family extremely good support. We are all very proud of Andrew and I’d like to thank all the people sending in kind comments to the Windsor Star website under the article about my brother and the two other brave men who died in the same attack. It helps a lot. I remind you to keep praying for our forces and for world peace. I’ll always remember the ‘heroes’ work’ you did for our country. Family members often call me Andrew by accident and I’m honored to be called your name. We’ll always remember you, Andrew."

Matthew

Andrew Grenon's 14 year old brother

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It is very difficult to know what to say at this time. We would first like to extend our sincere condolences to the families of Andrew’s fallen comrades and to the families of those soldiers who were injured in this outrageous attack. Please know that we will pray for their speedy recovery.
As difficult as this is to accept, what makes it easier is knowing that Andrew was happy and content as a soldier in the PPCLI, that he firmly believed in Canada’s mission in Afghanistan, and that he saw the good that was being done there.
Andrew sent home the following poem in November 2006, when he was half-way done his first tour in Afghanistan. It says it all.
Why We Fight
I’ve often asked myself why we are here.
Why my government actually agreed to send troops to this God-forsaken place.
There are no natural resources.
No oil, gold, or silver.
Just people.
People who have been at war for the last 40 plus years.
People who want nothing more than their children to be safe.
People who will do anything for money; even give their own life.
I look into the eyes of these people.
I see hate, destruction and depression.
I see love, warmth, kindness and appreciation.
Why do we fight?
For in this country, there are monsters.
Monsters we could easily fight on a different battlefield, at a different time.
Monsters that could easily take the fight to us.
Surrounding these mud walls and huts is a country in turmoil.
A country that is unable to rebuild itself.
A country that cannot guarantee a bright future for its youth.
Why do we fight?
Because, if we don’t fight today, on THIS battlefield,
then our children will be forced to face these monsters on our own battlefield.
I fight because I’m a soldier.
I fight because I’m ordered.
I fight, so my children won’t have to.
By: Andrew Grenon

Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis called to offer his condolences and advised us that the flags on city properties will be flown at half-mast in honour of Andrew. This protocol is extremely comforting to us. Please know how much this means to our family at this time.

Family of Cpl Andrew Grenon

Thank You and Catch Up

I'm hoping you're enjoying your summer. Soon Roto 5 will be coming home and preparations for Roto 6's deployment are underway. I have so much to catch you up on.

First off, I'd like to give a shout out and a BIG HUA to the soldiers serving overseas that are reading my blog right now in KAF! You are a true inspirational group of people.. brave, unselfish - so giving of yourselves. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and Godspeed.

I'd also like to say a BIG "THANK YOU" to all the daughters-in-law and sons-in-law (spouses and common laws and friends of soldiers currently serving overseas and those awaiting to deploy) for keeping in touch with the soldiers' parents after receiving phone calls and relaying information to them ..and keeping them "in the loop" with dates of return, deployment, training, etc... you just don't know how much this means to them....It means soo sooo much to them, more than you'd ever know. It truly brings and keeps the family circle together, as at times they may feel a disconnect.. you are the bridge of communication to their own child. (a vital and important part of their lives!) Am I right moms and dads?

Bless Sergeant Jason Boyes March 16, 2008

A Canadian soldier was killed Sunday March 16, 2008, by an explosive device while participating in a joint Afghan-Canadian foot patrol in the Zangabad region, in the District of Panjwayi, approximately 35 km South-West of Kandahar City. The soldier was immediately evacuated by helicopter to the Canadian-led multinational hospital at Kandahar Airfield, where he later succumbed to his wounds. The incident occurred at approximately 8:20 p.m. Kandahar time.

Our deceased and brave soldier is Sergeant Jason Boyes, age 32, 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI), based out of Shilo, Manitoba.
At the time of the incident, the soldier's unit was conducting a dismounted presence patrol in the area with Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF). These patrols are part of the many ways ANSF and ISAF show their presence, monitor the security situation and interact with the local population.This incident will not deter us from continuing our work with the Government and the people of Afghanistan. Incidents like this one prove that, along with our Afghan National Security Force partners, Canadians need to continue working to bring about peace and security in the region.

Lt.-Col. Dave Corbould, commander of Boyes' battle group, said the soldier was "a committed warrior." Boyes was "a leader through and through," he said. "He was someone we can all emulate. He represented the warrior spirit 100 per cent."
Regimental Sgt.-Maj. Brian Semenko also described Boyes as a committed soldier. He said he had talked a lot about the mission with Boyes over the past few years.
"He was really dedicated to the idea of serving overseas," Semenko said. "He felt the best way to serve was to do it overseas. His idea was not to give candy to children, but to kill insurgents."
Laroche said Boyes had arrived in the last few weeks with a new rotation of troops.
"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of our lost comrade in this very difficult time," he said. "We have lost a brother and a fine soldier who answered a call of duty one last time."
In a statement issued by the military, Boyes' family said they are "devastated" by the news.
"Jason loved his job, he loved the military and his fellow soldiers loved him back. His world was his 2 year old daughter, Mackenzie, his wife, Alison, his dogs and his family," the statement said.
"This was his third tour in Afghanistan. We have always, and still do, support this mission."

Boyes was born in Lynn Lake, Man., but was raised in Camden East and attended Napanee District Secondary School before joining the army in his early 20s. His parents now live in Kingston.
Boyes spoke to the Whig-Standard in 2002 during his first deployment to Afghanistan about the physical hardships of soldiering in that country.
"We pretty much stay out of the sun and drink water constantly," he said from Kandahar.
Then a corporal, Boyes had just returned from a five-day mission clearing caves of Taliban in the mountains in blazing summer heat while carrying 100 kilograms of gear, the last 30 hours without food or water because it was too dangerous to be resupplied.
"It was rough," he said, but he noted the soldiers accomplished their mission and credited the Canadian military's training for their ability to operate there.
"It just seems we're more hardy than our American counterparts ... It's all in the way we're trained," he said. "I like the way we do things. I take pride in that."

We have lost a fine Canadian today, and our hearts go out to the family and friends of this brave soldier.

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Statement by the Minister of National Defence on

the Death of Canadian Soldier in Afghanistan

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:"I would like to offer my most sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Sergeant Jason Boyes who died tragically yesterday in Afghanistan.Sergeant Boyes was an extremely brave Canadian who made the ultimate sacrifice while proudly serving his country. This is a tragic loss for the Canadian Forces and all of Canada.Sergeant Boyes was killed by an explosive device while on a foot patrol in the Zanghabad region, in Panjwayi district. These patrols are part of the many ways that members of the Canadian Forces show their presence, monitor the security situation and interact with the local population. The efforts of Canada's soldiers are making a difference in southern Afghanistan and their sustained presence in the region will allow for reconstruction and development to continue.Sergeant Jason Boyes was a member of the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian light infantry, based in Shilo Manitoba.

Statement by Stephen Harper:

Prime Minister Stephen Harper offered his "deepest condolences to the loved ones of Sgt. Jason Boyes." In a statement Monday afternoon, Harper said Boyes was "a well- respected member of the Canadian Forces" and "an exceptionally brave soldier who deserves the support and gratitude of all Canadians."

Statement by Governor General Michaëlle Jean

Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean said Boyes "deserves our respect and admiration" and offered condolences to his family and fellow soldiers.
"We share your grief and honour his memory," Jean said in a statement.

Godspeed Task Force 1-08 - Roto 5

Cristina Moldoben weeps on the shoulder of her husband Cpl. Jason Moldoben at the Edmonton Garrison during a farewell ceremony.

This month, many families and friends tearfully and with forced smiles are saying goodbye to their sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, friends and familiy members as they deploy on their mission in Afghanistan. These brave and honourable soldiers are compromised from regiments in Edmonton, Alberta and Shilo, Manitoba. Forced smiles you ask. Forced as they are filled with pride, want to show their support for their soldier walking to the plane, yet as they plane leaves the runway and the last sighting of their loved one turns to a pinpoint in the sky, they turn to the void and grief within them. Tears come easily. Yet they are strong - they are the miltary famiies - the backbone of the military - showing their support throughout the mission. The parents of these soldiers reside not only in Edmonton or Shilo, but many, many live across Canada. Please if you know a military mom, dad sister, brother, son, daughter or friend of one of the deployed soldier, give them a hug. I wish I could give each one a medal- for bravery.

To our soldiers: your dedication to Canada and contributions to the Canadian Forces are a great example of the selflessness and sense of duty of all soldiers. We are proud of your service to your country and dedication in that which you believed in. You are truly Canadian heroes and the world in which we live is a safer place because of your commitment to freedom. We proudly stand for you with honor, dignity, and respect. Godspeed TF 1-08.

W.O. Dave Shultz says goodbye to his dog Rika at the Edmonton Garrison this morning before leaving for Afghanistan. Photo credit : John Lucas/Edmonton Journal

Family, friends and at least one dog bid farewell February 8th to about 139 soldiers bound for Afghanistan.
They left Edmonton for a six-month tour as part of the 2,500-strong Task Force 1-08, of which 1300 are from Edmonton and 1200 Shilo, Manitoba. Edmonton’s last large deployment to Kandahar was in 2006.

Sergeant Ryan Herbert takes his turn

holding daughter his young daughter.

Sgt Herbert serves with 1 RCHA and is returning to

Afghanistan for his second tour.

The deployment includes a 1,000-soldier battle group in Kandahar, and a 250-soldier provincial reconstruction Team, responsible for governance, reconstruction and development in Kandahar Province. The senior military leader heralded NATO’s “made-in-Canada” spine today at Edmonton Garrison in a pep talk to 1,300 soldiers destined for Afghanistan.
“You’re gonna be facing a formidable enemy, who is increasingly discredited time and time again in Kandahar province,” Brig.-Gen. Mark Skidmore, commander of Land Force Western Area, told the soldiers.
“The enemy has learned that NATO does have a spine and that spine is made right here in Canada.”

Petty Officer 2nd Class Penney Carla holds her daughter Kayla before being deployed to Afghanistan with the Canadian forces on Friday at the Lecture Training Facility at CFB Edmonton. Photo Credit: Jordan Verlage

There was hardly a dry eye in the house at Edmonton Garrison. It was one of several deployments that will continue almost daily through February, as local soldiers rotate into Kandahar to relieve the Quebec-based troops currently stationed there.
Today's group totaled 139 men and women from various units, including 3 Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry and 1 Service Battalion.
Dubbed Task Force 1-08, the group represents the largest contingent of Edmonton-based troops to enter Afghanistan since a similar rotation in February, 2006.
The lecture hall where the soldiers gathered to bid farewell to loved ones was filled with optimism, although dozens of spouses and children lost the battle to hold back their tears.
"We're excited to be going, we've learned a lot since our last rotation and things are getting better for us over there," said Cpl. David Lefebvre, who leaves a wife and three children in Edmonton during his six-month tour.
"At the same time though, it's harder. Our families are growing and it's never easy to leave your children, especially the newborns."
His wife Charlene echoed the emotions of other spouse at the gathering. "We're so proud because we know the soldiers are needed over there," she said. "Still, we already wish he was back with us." See also: Army News' TF 1-08 departure parade and Task Force 1-08 News

"Thank you Jennifer"

Task Force 1-08 - Roto 5 Composition

Soldiers are currently being deployed.

What is Roto 5 - TF 1-08 composed of?

Task Force 1-08 (Joint Task Force Afghanistan, Roto 5) composed of approximately 2500 soldiers will comprise of the following units:

• A 1000 soldier Battle Group in Kandahar, primarily from the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI), which includes:
• Battle Group Headquarters – 2 PPCLI (Shilo);
• Two Rifle Companies – B and C Companies 2 PPCLI (Shilo) and elements of A Company 3 PPCLI (Edmonton);
• One Artillery Battery with two Surveillance and Target Acquisition ( STA ) troops– B Battery 1 RCHA (Shilo);
• One Field Engineer Squadron – 12 Field Squadron 1 CER (Edmonton);
• One Reconnaissance Platoon – 2 PPCLI (Shilo);
• One Reconnaissance Squadron – D Squadron 12 RBC (Valcartier);
• One Tank Squadron – B Squadron LdSH(RC) (Edmonton);.
•One Armoured Engineer Troop – 1 CER (Edmonton );
The majority of about 400 Reserve Force soldiers, will come from:
• 39 CBG from British Columbia - approximately 136 soldiers;
• 41 CBG from Alberta - approximately 145 soldiers; and
• 38 CBG from Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario- approximately 117soldiers
• A Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (TUAV) unit comprised primarily of personnel from 444 Close Support Squadron and 4 Air Defence Regiment (4 AD Regt) based in Moncton; and
• Operational Mentor Liaison Team (OMLT) of 153 soldiers formed primarily from 3 PPCLI with augmentation from Land Force Western Area (LFWA), Land Force Atlantic Area (LFAA) and Land Force Central Area (LFCA). It will partner with Afghan National Army (ANA) Infantry Kandaks (Kandak is the Afghan word for “battalion”) and ANA Corps Headquarters. It also includes a 31-member Police Observer-Mentor Liaison Team that will work with the Afghan National Police in a similar capacity.
• Health Service Support (HSS) company of 186 personnel contributing medical personnel to the Role 1 unit as well as to the Multinational Medical Unit (MMU) Role 3 facility at Kandahar Airfield (KAF) comprised of primarily Edmonton-based personnel from 1 Field Ambulance (1 Fd Amb) and 1 Canadian Field Hospital (1 Cdn Fd Hosp), as well as other Health Services units from across Canada;
• About 11 CF members with the Regional Command (South) Headquarters assisting Canadian Major-General Lessard in accomplishing his mission and exercising command and control over the Region Command (South) in Afghanistan. RC (S) controls ISAF operations in the provinces of Kandahar, Helmand, Zabol, Uruzgan, Nimroz and Daikundi;
• About 350 CF members with the Joint Task Force (Afghanistan) Headquarters (JTF (Afg) HQ) at Kandahar Airfield. JTF (A) HQ is primarily composed of personnel drawn primarily from 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group based in Petawawa;
• About 470 CF members with the National Support Element (NSE) in Kandahar, primarily from the 1 Service Battalion (1 Svc Bn) in Edmonton with two Force Protection Platoons drawn from 39 and 41 CBG based out of Vancouver and Calgary respectively;
• About 350 CF members with the Theatre Support Element (TSE) at Camp Mirage in Southwest Asia; and
• A Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) of 250 soldiers, which is responsible for governance, reconstruction and development in Kandahar Province based at Camp Nathan Smith in Kandahar City. The military component of the PRT includes:
• The PRT Commander's Tactical Headquarters Group, which provides protection and mobility to the PRT Commander and his staff;
• An infantry company from the 1 st Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (1 PPCLI), protecting and escorting the PRT, providing a quick reaction force for Kandahar City, and performing defence and security tasks;
• Military project managers (military engineers) enhancing the PRT's capability to manage quick impact reconstruction and development projects;
• A Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) platoon from LFWA;
• A Military Police Platoon consisting of members Edmonton ;
• A Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) platoon from LFWA;
• Service and support elements drawn from across Canada; and
• Other specialized elements from vaious CF units across Canada.

Afghanistan... they are on their way!