Canada Post Will Continue Program of Free Delivery to Deployed Troops

I'd like to thank Canada Post and the Canadian Forces for conjunctively bringing families and friends closer to their families and friends closer through the holiday season through this service. I know there are many families through Canada who have shown deep appreciation for this service. All the best to you for a warm holiday.
To families and friends: a reminder - when sending a letter, to benefit from this free service, remember to take it to a postal office to mail rather than depositing it in a mailbox. The staff need to stamp the envelope. Some families who have deposited their cherished letters in the mailbox, have had them returned, which is unfortunate.
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Canada Post will continue program of free delivery to deployed troops

Oct. 26, 2009
OTTAWA (October 26, 2009)—Canada Post announced today it will again provide free delivery of letters and parcels from family and friends to Canadian troops deployed in Afghanistan and elsewhere overseas. This will be the fourth year that Canada Post has offered this service. Free parcel service for family and friends of deployed Canadian troops will be provided from October 26, 2009 to January 15, 2010.
Last year Canada Post forwarded more than 21,000 parcels to our Canadian troops serving in Afghanistan and elsewhere overseas, an increase of 60 per cent over the previous year. Family and friends of deployed troops will also be able to continue sending letters free throughout 2010. At the end of this period, Canada Post and the Department of National Defence will jointly evaluate the program.
"We are pleased to be able to show our continued support for our troops serving overseas and their families," said Moya Greene, president and chief executive officer of Canada Post.
“This program allows Canadians at home to extend their best wishes to loved ones far away in the service of Canada, often in dangerous places,” said the Honourable Rob Merrifield, Minister of State (Transport). “It is an excellent initiative and one I very much support.”
With capacity limitations on military aircraft carrying supplies and munitions to deployed forces, this offer is restricted to family and friends of the deployed service men and women serving overseas in war zones. That includes members of the Canadian Forces serving in Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Sinai and Jerusalem. Troops serving on any of the deployed Her Majesty's Canadian Ships are also included in the offer.
To ensure the proper customs declaration form and addressing information, the letters and parcels will need to be deposited at one of Canada Post's more than 6,600 full-service retail outlets across the country (letters and packages dropped in regular street letter boxes will not qualify). They will then be forwarded to Canadian Forces Bases in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Victoria, British Columbia and Belleville, Ontario. Once delivered to the military bases, the Department of National Defence will take charge of the letters and parcels and ensure their delivery overseas. All mail must be addressed to a specific soldier, including rank and mission information.

Warriors' Day Parade

If you've never been to Warrior' Day, I highly recommend going. Last year was my first chance to attend the CNE during Warriors' Day. It was highly invigorating. There were many displays to view for both adults and children. Many of our Veterans were in attendance- all to thank with sincerest gratitude. The Musical Salute in the evening is phenominal - bringing tears to the eyes as they had commemorated our troops serving overseas. Be sure to mark it on your calendar. See you at the EX.

The 88th Warriors' Day Parade will be held on Saturday, August 22nd, 2009 at 10:30am at the Canadian National Exhibition, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. For more information, click here. or go to: http://www.warriorsdayparade.ca/

The 2009 parade is dedicated to the Centennial of the Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC). Today more than 7500 CIC officers supervise 59000 cadets in 1156 corps and squadrons across Canada. The CIC is one of the most diversified and active components of the Canadian Forces whose goal is to ensure that cadets benefit from the best training possible and that they develop their skills to the fullest. The Warriors' Day Parade is proud to mark this significant anniversary.

Established in 1921, The Warriors' Day Parade takes place in August of each year during the opening weekend of The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The longest-running, annual parade of its' type, The Warriors' Day Parade is an important Canadian tradition and a very significant event for our Veterans, our brave men and women who currently serve in Canada's military, their families and the general public.

Complete your 2009 Warriors Day experience by attending the Canadian Forces Musical Salute.

CANADIAN FORCES MUSICAL SALUTE

Free with CNE admission
THANKING THE CANADIAN PUBLIC FOR THEIR SUPPORT
PARTICIPANTS:
The Central Band of the Canadian Forces combined with
The First Canadian Air Division Band
The Air Command Pipes and Drums
The Ceremonial Guard Band and the Drill Team
438 Squadron Fanfare
The Combined Bands of The Toronto Garrison
The National Band of the Naval Reserve
…and other special guests
FEATURED PERFORMANCE:
Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture (using our own military's militia)

Friday, August 21 and Saturday August 22, 2009
Gates Open at 7:00 pm
BMO Field – Exhibition Place, Toronto

FOR VETERANS AND FAMILIES:
Veterans and their families may apply for complimentary CNE tickets by completing the Family Ticket Application Form and mailing it to the Ticket Chairman no later than 7th August 2009.

Click here for application form

Free parking in CNE parking lots on Warriors' Day for Veterans. Vehicle must have an official Canadian or U.S.A. Veteran's license plate to qualify.

COMPLIMENTARY BUS & TRAIN TRANSPORTATION for Veterans and Families click here for info

God Bless Cpl Martin Joannette July 6, 2009

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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

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

God Bless MCpl Pat Audet July 6-09

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

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

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

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

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

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

Journey Home

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

Repatriation to Canada - families greet their loved ones

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

Photo Credit: Peter Redman

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

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

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

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

Peter MacKay,

Minister of National Defence and Minister

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

Jawed Ludin,

Ambassador of Afghanistan in Canada

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

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

Prime Minister Stephen Harper

God Bless Master Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud July 04, 2009

Our hearts and prayers go to the family and friends of Master Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud during this difficult time. We will never forget his sacrifice.

Master Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud
Canadian soldier, Master Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud from the 2e Battlaion, Royal 22e Regiment who recently sustained serious injuries in Afghanistan has passed away in a Quebec hospital July 4th. His Regiment is based at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier, near Quebec City.

At approximately 9:15 a.m. Kandahar time on June 23, 2009, Master-Corporal Michaud was seriously injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near his dismounted patrol in Panjwayi District, southwest of Kandahar City.Master-Corporal Michaud was evacuated by helicopter to the coalition medical facility at Kandahar Airfield and subsequently moved to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Centre in Germany. He arrived in Quebec City on June 28, 2009 and succumbed to his injuries at approximately 2 p.m. EDT on July 4, 2009 in a Quebec City hospital.

Master-Corporal Michaud was serving as a member of the 2e Batallion, Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group in Kandahar, Afghanistan. This was his third operational tour and second to Afghanistan.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade during this very difficult time. Master-Corporal Michaud lost his life as a direct result of his participation in operations to enhance security for the people of Kandahar Province.

We will not forget his sacrifice.

Comrades Pay Tribute
Soldiers, some their faces still raw with grief, gathered Monday at Kandahar Airfield to pay tribute to a friend and colleague, Master Cpl. Charles-Philippe Michaud, the latest Canadian victim of Afghanistan's insurgent war.
About 150 comrades of the fallen soldier attended the brief morning ceremony at battlegroup headquarters.
With heads bowed, they listened as Padre Normand Cholette said a prayer for the 28-year-old Michaud, who died in Quebec City hospital on Saturday, more than a week after he was gravely injured by a landmine in southern Afghanistan.
Cholette said everyone in Kandahar had assumed the soldier, despite his terrible injuries, was going to pull through, and word of his death hit hard.
"All his colleagues were sure that everything was going to be OK," Cholette said.
"Learning the news was a shock; it's not easy for the troops."
Michaud was hurt when he stepped on a landmine during a foot patrol in the Panjwaii district on June 23. He was flown to Germany and then on to Canada for emergency treatment, but he never regained consciousness.

Nicknamed Chuck, Michaud was on his third operational tour and his second in Afghanistan. The member of the 2nd Batallion, Royal 22nd Regiment based at Valcartier.
Cholette said Michaud was known to be dedicated and disciplined, and in strong physical shape. He was faithful in his duty and much appreciated, the padre added.
"We're going through a time of mourning here," Cholette said.
"It's important for all the troops to emphasize the fact that we appreciate him."
Among those attending the ceremony in the hot morning sunshine was Canadian Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance, senior commander in Kandahar province and the battlegroup commander, Lt.-Col. Jocelyn Paul.
Moments after, several soldiers who had driven in climbed aboard their armoured vehicles and rolled back out of Kandahar Airfield to their forward operating bases.

Condolences

If you wish to leave your condolences for the Michaud family, please place them on the comment section and I will transfer them below.

"I wish to express my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Master-Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud.Master-Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud was a valiant and courageous Canadian soldier who died in service to his country and the world community after being wounded in Afghanistan during a patrol June 23.His sacrifice will never be forgotten and increases Canada's resolve to help the Afghan people in a UN-sanctioned, NATO-led mission.Thanks to Master-Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud, progress and change is taking place in Afghanistan." - Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence

God Bless Cpl Nicholas Bulger July 03, 2009

It is with sadness today that we learn of a comrade, a brother, a son, a husband, a father, our fallen soldier Cpl Nick Bulger. Our thoughts and prayers turn to his family and friends both here and in Afghanistan.

Cpl. Nicholas Bulger July 03, 2009 11:20 a.m.
A Canadian soldier was killed and five injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near their armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Zhari District. The incident occurred south-west of Kandahar City at around 11:20 a.m., Kandahar time, on 3 July, 2009.

Killed in action was Cpl Nicholas Bulger from the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry based in Edmonton.The injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at the Kandahar Airfield. They are in good condition and under medical care.The identities of the injured soldiers will not be released.

The soldiers were members of the Task Force Kandahar Headquarters.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade during this very difficult time.

Members of Task Force Kandahar are committed to improving security and increasing development in Kandahar Province. Despite these cowardly attacks we are determined to continue working with our Afghan and international partners towards a better future for the people of Afghanistan.

Comrades Say Goodbye

He is Coming Home

Repatriation at CFB Trenton, Ontario

Condolences

If you wish to leave condolences, please enter them into the comment section and I will transfer them below. Thank you. ~M.Mom

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

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

Corporal Martin Dubé

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

Comrades Say Goodbye

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

God Bless Pte. Alexandre Peloquin - June 08th, 2009

Our hearts are heavy as we learn of the news that Private Alexandre Péloquin was killed on June 8, 2009. Our thoughts and prayers turn to his family and friends- his comrades both here and in Afghanistan. Thank you Pte Peloquin - you shall always be remembered.

Private Alexandre Péloquin

A Canadian soldier was killed when an explosive device detonated during a foot patrol in the Panjwai District. The incident took place in an area south-west of Kandahar City at around 09:20 a.m., Kandahar time, June 8, 2009.Killed in action was Private Alexandre Peloquin from the 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Regiment based at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier near Quebec City. He was serving as a member of the 2e Bataillon, Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group. The soldier was evacuated by helicopter to the Multi-National Medical Facility at the Kandahar Airfield.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade during this very difficult time. While our ultimate goal remains to leave Afghanistan to Afghans, in a country that is better governed, more peaceful, and more secure; let's not consider the tragic death of our soldiers as a failure of our mission as this is precisely what our enemy is counting on. Our collective efforts here are making a noticeable difference in helping Afghans reclaim their lives from oppression and despicable living conditions.

Le soldat Alexandre Péloquin a été tué lorsqu’un engin explosif a explosé pendant une patrouille à pied dans le district de Panjwai. L’incident a eu lieu dans une région au sud-ouest de Kandahar City vers 09 h 20, heure de Kandahar, le 08 juin 2009. Le soldat Alexandre Péloquin du 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment basé à la Base des Forces canadiennes Valcartier près de Québec. Il servait à titre de membre du groupement tactique du 2e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment.

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He is Coming Home - The Ramp Ceremony in Kandahar

"He was great soldier," Lt. Col. Jocelyn Paul, the commander of Peloquin's battle group, told reporters before the ceremony, "someone everyone liked. He was a strong man, tall. Someone who left a mark on everyone."It's a very tough day."
Private Alexandre Péloquin was remembered Tuesday night as a courageous and inspirational soldier. "God of love, we thank you for the life of Private Alexandre Peloquin," Padre Normand Cholette said Tuesday night at an emotional ramp ceremony at Kandahar Airfield. "We pray for his family, and may they know that we hold them in prayer at these difficult times. May we bring the same inspiration and energy to the mission as he did, so that we may honour his memory and the ultimate sacrifice that he has made for the peace and the well-being of this country."
Cholette, the chaplain of the 22nd Royal Regiment with which Peloquin was serving, delivered the prayer before Pte. Peloquin was boarded on the final flight home.
More than 2,000 mourners stood at attention on the tarmac during the sombre ceremony, when the only sound was the drone of the Hercules plane that sat waiting to begin the journey to Canada.
Members of Peloquin's battalion climbed aboard the plane after his flag-draped casket was loaded to pay their last respects to a friend and fellow soldier.

He is Home - Repatriation in Trenton, ON



Our fallen soldier, Private Alexandre Péloquin, from the 3e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment based at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier near Quebec City, returns home to Canada on Thursday, June 11, 2009 at 2:00 pm at 8 Wing, Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ontario.
Present to pay their respects were Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, Mr. Laurie Hawn, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, Chief of the Defence Staff, General Walt Natynczyk and other dignitaries.




WORDS OF CONDOLENCE
If you wish to leave words of condolence for Pte. Peloquin, please enter them in the comment section and I will transfer them below.

My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I have just learned the sad news of the death of Private Alexandre Peloquin, a member of the 2e Bataillon, Royal 22e Regiment. He was on patrol in an area southwest of Kandahar, Afghanistan, when he was killed by an explosive device. The increasingly sophisticated bombs of the insurgents are becoming more and more deadly.We salute Private Alexandre Peloquin's courage and sense of duty, which he demonstrated throughout this difficult and dangerous mission, knowing as he did the importance of re-establishing security and hope in an ideal of justice in Afghanistan.
Our hearts go out to his family, loved ones and Canadian Forces comrades as they mourn this terrible loss. May they take comfort in knowing that Canadians are with them in thought and extend to them their deepest sympathies.
Michaelle Jean

Mon mari Jean-Daniel Lafond et moi venons d'apprendre la triste nouvelle du décès du soldat Alexandre Péloquin, un membre du 2e bataillon, du Royal 22e Régiment. Il participait à une patrouille au sud-ouest de Kandahar, en Afghanistan, et a été tué par un engin explosif. Les bombes de plus en plus sophistiquées des insurgés se font toujours plus meurtrières.Nous saluons le courage et le sens du devoir dont le soldat Alexandre Péloquin a fait preuve dans le cadre de cette mission difficile et périlleuse, convaincu qu'il était de l'importance de rétablir la sécurité et l'espoir en un idéal de justice en Afghanistan.Nous sommes de tout coeur avec sa famille, ses proches et ses camarades des Forces canadiennes aujourd'hui inconsolables. Qu'ils sachent que les Canadiennes et les Canadiens sont avec eux en pensée et leur expriment leurs plus sincères condoléances.
Michaëlle Jean

I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Private Alexandre Peloquin, who was killed today when an explosive device detonated during a foot patrol in the Panjwai District.Pte Peloquin was a brave Canadian who deserves the gratitude and respect of his nation. He served valiantly, and represents Canadian values and traditions in the finest sense.He gave his life to provide hope to Afghans for a better future and to protect Canadian national interests and the values of freedom, democracy respect for human rights and the rule of law. This UN-sanctioned, NATO-led mission is a challenging one and Canada and the world community will not be swayed from this noble cause.The sacrifice Pte Peloquin made in honour of Canada and the Canadian people will not be forgotten. Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence

Dear Jacques & Monique, I was so sorry to hear about your son, Alexandre. I live in Scotland now, but still miss all the Brownsburg people and I remember so well your friendship with my brother, Alan. You will be in my thoughts and prayers, especially on Saturday. Mary Vowles Duncan

Comment Moderation

Unfortunately, due to a disgraceful and disgusting act of adult spam on the comment section of a posting for a fallen soldier, I have needed to resolve to "Comment Moderation". It will protect the postings from this happening again.
You can still comment on any posting, however it may take a day or two to be publicized as the comment comes to my attention first and I then decide if the comment is appropriate. If appropriate, I would then send it onto publication.
It has taken a couple of days of hard work to delete the "works" of this person. I apologize should anyone had seen it - I did not agree with anything it stood for.
As to the person (s) who had done this dispicable act, they have been reported and are being dealt with. Should you witness anything as this on my site, please let me know.
So, long story short - welcome back and please continue placing you comments! I love reading your input!
Here's to continued support!
~m.m.

God Bless Major Michelle Mendes April 23rd, 2009

First, I must TRULY apologize for the missing post for Major Michelle Mendes. It was highly unintentional. It was created, but was in draft mode. I wish to thank my readers for pointing this out to me. Again, my apologies especially to the friends and family of Major Mendes.

With sadness we learn today of the passing of our fallen soldier Major Michelle Mendes. Our hearts and prayers are with her family, friends and comrades as they travel a difficult journey ahead. Michelle will always be remembered.

Major Michelle Mendes

April 23th, 2009: Maj. Michelle Mendes, 30, with Canada's Task Force Kandahar headquarters, based in Ottawa, died today from a non-battle injury.

Comrades Say Goodbye as the Journey Home Begins

Coalition troops from Canada and around the world gathered April 24, 2009 on the tarmac at Kandahar Airfield to bid a final farewell to Maj. Mendes.

We Honour Our Soldier- her journey home
The casket containing the remains of Maj. Michelle Mendes is carried from the aircraft to a waiting hearse on the tarmac during the repatriation ceremony at CFB Trenton on April 26, 2009 where many Canadians gather to honour Maj. Mendes and pay respect and show support to her family at CFB Trenton and along the Highway of Heroes.

Our Last Goodbyes

The casket of Major Michelle Mendes is carried out of Sydenham Street United Church in Kingston, ON as her husband follows closely on May 1, 2009.

Condolences

If you would like to leave a note of condolence to the family and friends of Maj. Mendes, please post it in the comment section and I will transfer it below. Sincerely, Military Mom

While in Ukraine on a State Visit, my husband Jean-Daniel Lafond and I learned of the tragic death of Major Michelle Mendes, based in Ottawa, Ontario, yesterday in Afghanistan.
Every day, our soldiers serving there are put to the test, both physically and psychologically. The extraordinary dedication and immeasurable contribution are immeasurable. We are grateful to the women and men of our Canadian Forces who give so much of themselves.
Canadians everywhere join us in extending our sincerest condolences and sympathies to the family, friends and comrades in arms of Major Mendes. Though we may be an ocean apart, know that our thoughts are with you.
Michaëlle Jean

"I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Major Michelle Mendes, who died yesterday in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.
The Canadian Forces continue to make an immense difference in the lives of Afghans while protecting and promoting both Canadian and international security. Despite our grief, we will continue our important mission to bring peace and stability to the people of Afghanistan.
Major Mendes, who was based on Ottawa, was serving in her second tour of duty in Afghanistan. She graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada in 2001. Her hard work and dedication will not be forgotten.”
Peter Gordon MacKay

Minister of National Defence

Letter from Michelle's Family (as appeared in Globe and Mail)

The Globe’s Christie Blatchford and Jessica Leeder couriered a written request to members of Major Michelle Mendes’s family earlier this month asking for an interview. They refused the interview, but penned a detailed response. What follows, but for an introductory paragraph, is their letter.
June 17, 2009
The media coverage following Mic’s death provided some glimpses into her career, her character and her many accomplishments but did not do justice in describing the wife, daughter an sister we loved and the life she packed into the years she was able to spend with us. Here is the rest of the story of the person we knew so well and the loss we mourn every day.
Mic and her older sister Mel grew up in Grafton Ontario with a childhood typical of smaller communities. She was in Brownies and Guides, went to camp through church and started to develop her leadership skills working as a camp counselor. She excelled in school and was consistently on the honour roll. An avid reader from an early age, she typically had a book in every room of the house and would read them all concurrently. Always athletic, she was involved in figure skating for many years, played rugby and baseball as well as spearheading a concerted drive to form her high school’s first girl’s wrestling team. An avid swimmer, she qualified as a lifeguard and was consistently in the family pool. She even combined her two passions for reading and fitness by figuring out how to read a book while swimming laps.
Even as a child, Mic was a very social person who balanced a few very strong friendships while maintaining a wide circle of friends across the community and, eventually, around the globe. Certainly in her home town, Mic knew everybody and everybody knew Mic. She always enjoyed children; she worked in a daycare and taught Sunday School during her high school years. As she grew, she took an interest in world events and the plight of others leading to her sense of service and a desire to assist those in need. Her interests led to her being accepted under a Rotary International programme where she spent one year in Brazil on a high school youth exchange. In addition to returning speaking Portuguese fluently, this experience highlighted her interest to find a career where she could make a difference in the world which ultimately led to her joining the military. Based on the impact she made while in Brazil, and with the Rotarians who sponsored her, Mic was subsequently selected to represent those who had done exchanges by giving an address to over 2500 Rotarians in California. Years later, Mic maintained her connection to Rotary through friends who were still in involved in youth exchange and other initiatives such as polio eradication, and planned to join Rotary once she returned to Kingston.
Mic thrived at RMC with its emphasis on broad, balanced development in academics, athletics, leadership and languages. She thoroughly enjoyed the intellectual challenges of her programme and many of her professors have told us of their memories of an enthusiastic student who was always seeking to expand her knowledge beyond what the course covered. Like most university students, Mic had her strengths and her weaknesses. She excelled in the Arts. She loved ideas more that formulas, mathematics was not her strong suit and she struggled with first year calculus. While this likely led to her subsequent difficulties with the advanced phase of Artillery training, Mic passed calculus with her trademark perseverance and the help of some classmates leading to her constant desire to assist her colleagues when she could help out and her willingness to reach out to others when she needed assistance.
As she had growing up, Mic made a large number of friends at RMC. We clearly recall the first time she asked if she could bring a few friends to visit our apple farm one weekend. Expecting a car load of 3 or 4, we were amazed when a caravan of dozens showed up for the weekend. This was the first of many times that we had the chance to meet her many friends and enjoying watching each develop into confident, successful individuals.
As her friends have said and Vic observed, Mic was a true team player and natural leader on the field. As with all facets of her life, she paid attention to her teammates, was always encouraging others and consistently downplayed her own skills and successes. These led to her selection as captain of her soccer team. She effectively combined a strong competitive spirit with good sportsmanship, win or lose. Of course, sports and particularly soccer was what brought Mic and Vic together leading to a strong partnership and wonderful marriage.
Building on the characteristics evident as a child, Mic sought out opportunities to take on greater responsibilities and fulfill leadership roles. She talked to us about her role models and the important lessons she learned about what the military was, what was expected of officers and the demands of a military career. She had the privilege of meeting Gen Romeo Dallaire and was inspired by his call for better educated officers with the desire to serve Canada in valuable missions overseas. These served to strengthen Mic’s commitment to serving in uniform. It was during her time at RMC that we came to realize how important the CF was to Mic and that she was determine to serve for a full career.
While Mic blossomed at RMC expanding her understanding of the world and of herself, the aspects that stood out the most where those that had described Mic from childhood. She strove to excel and could be quite dogged in her determination to complete tasks that needed to be done. She certainly set high standards for herself and epitomized the ideal that one’s reach should exceed one’s grasp but she was equally aware of her limitations. Having had the privilege of staying in touch with so many of Mic’s classmates over the years, we have come to recognize the commitment, perseverance and sense of service that characterizes those who have made the military their career.
Mic emerged from RMC confident, committed and dynamic; characteristics that enabled her to enjoy subsequent success and to weather the occasional set backs that she encountered as all of us do in life. Her excellence in all aspects of the RMC programme led to her selection as one of the few Cadets who are approved each year to apply to immediately pursue post-graduate training. Based on her outstanding academic achievements, she earned acceptance to Carleton University’s prestigious Norman Patterson School of International Affairs. Again, Mic thrived on the intellectual stimulation. She pursued courses that interested her; which would, in fact, subsequently serve her well as an Intelligence Officer and, we believe, were part of why Mic excelled in the branch. She clearly did well in her studies as some of her professors had encouraged her to continue to do a PhD. As with her time at RMC, she also made some great friendships and we were fortunate to have met several of her NPSIA friends over the years.
We are extremely proud of Mic’s successes in her career. Although it took a couple of years, her selection to be an Intelligence Officer was an obvious great fit for Mic as it allowed her to apply her keen intellect and love of learning, her desire to make a difference in the world and her phenomenal social and leadership skills. Not only did she excel on courses, she drew on her graduate education, her colleague’s expertise and her own personal reading to teach at the Intelligence School and, most recently, submit an academic article on the need to better incorporate socio-cultural anthropology into CF thinking and Intelligence analyses. Mic made many contributions to the Branch including working on organizing the 25th anniversary dinner and dance in fall 2007. As part of her extensive preparation for her deployment to Afghanistan she had made contact with a Canadian supported Afghan Women’s Network.
Despite her busy military career and time away from her home in Kingston, Mic was always active with family and community. For several years, she helped organize the Christmas dinner served at the United church downtown. She participated in numerous fund raisers including running ½ marathons for cancer with her Mom. She always stayed in peak condition finding time to work out every day as well as belonging to a Kingston running club (for fun). Constantly thinking of others, she kept in close contact with colleagues and friends who deployed. As some related to us, she managed to get ‘care packages’ to some friends in Afghanistan before their own families did.
As reflected in her choice of a career in uniform and her year in Brazil, Mic loved to travel. She and Vic had wonderful experiences seeing the world through each other’s eyes starting with their shoe string budget trip to Venezuela and extending through subsequent travels to Jamaica, Mexico and especially Portugal to twice celebrate Christmas with extended family.
What consistently amazed us was the number of lives she touched and all of those who felt a close personal connection with Mic. She was so often the key to bringing friends from all realms together. She always made sure the different communities she was involved in had the opportunity to crossover and learn from one another while gaining incredible friendships at the same time. She made everyone feel important, and made sure that their familial bond or friendship was celebrated just as she celebrated important milestones in her life. Together with her family and friends, who were truly extended family to her, she celebrated life, her marriage, holidays, birthdays, and her well deserved promotions. And every one of those celebrations was done with Mic’s flair for the creative, specially decorated cakes, water balloons for the kids, and that oh so memorable handmade card or treat for that certain someone; everyone was made to feel special. For the party to celebrate her promotion to Major and her deployment, Mic invited 135 people and 135 showed up. She took great joy on that occasion sharing stories with each and every one of them, telling them where she was going to work and offering many advance congratulations for events that they would celebrate while she was away. Never one to lose contact and an avid user of Facebook, Mic made sure her family and friends would be able to stay in touch while she was away by prepping pre-addressed envelopes destined for her in Afghanistan. She did this, while at the same time making sure that her friends back home, or returning home, knew just how special they were by spending extra time with them before she left, and leaving others special treats they knew were crafted by her hand and assembled for them.
Mic committed to her tour in Afghanistan the way she lived her entire life: enthusiastic, confident and determined. Her deployment combined two of her greatest loves: service to Canada and extending a helping hand to those in need. We hope this letter gives you a more complete understanding of the wonderful person we loved and who we fully supported in her desire to make the world just a little bit better. Many have commented to us on Mic’s intellect, her warmth, her compassion for others and her constant desire to assist those in need. We are comforted by knowing how many lives she touched, the contributions she made to the CF and the legacy she has left of service to humanity. Our fondest wish would be that her story may inspire others to seek to better understand our complex world and pursue options to represent Canada on the international stage making a difference in the lives of others.
In your letter to us, you have stated you wanted to explore what you believe are the tough questions that may have been raised. We don’t see them as such. Mic was fully trained and fully prepared for her deployment. We are very proud of her many accomplishments, her commitment to mastering her profession and the well deserved accolades she received for her leadership, expertise and judgment. Mic certainly undertook demanding duties in the course of her career but so have many of her friends in uniform whom we know very well. We fully understood Mic’s passion for her career and her drive to serve her nation to the best of her ability. Our observation is that the military is filled with individuals who thrive on challenges and are committed to rise to the occasion. Other stories in your paper and in Ms Blatchford’s book have illustrated this point very well.
We are proud of the fact that the CF saw Mic as fully qualified to assume responsibilities as a Major in the Intelligence Branch and we remain convinced that she was more than capable of discharging her duties and making a valuable contribution to the difficult mission that the Canadian people have given the CF. We are quite aware of the close personal contact Mic had with her superiors and remain confident that the CF exercised all of its responsibilities in selecting and preparing Mic for her deployment. We are quite aware of previous events you have alluded to including her first deployment and her first attempt at AOC. We remain concerned that those who had only tangential involvement with Mic have chosen to speculate about issues of which they have incomplete knowledge. We believe that they and/or you have taken isolated snippets of information out of context to opine that some ignored issues and placed her career and the mission in Afghanistan ahead of her well being. Our conclusion reading your letter is that you are seeking a rational explanation for an irrational act and have decided to portray a vulnerable person pushed into crisis. We strongly encourage you to do more research to understand the more accepted explanations for these events and to avoid perpetuating unfounded views. This letter is provided in the hope that you will opt to provide a factual retelling of the amazing joy, hope and inspiration cast by how Mic lived rather than speculation on the manner in which her flame went out. We do not believe your readers would be well served by conjecture that lacks a factual basis and we know that Mic deserves better than that.
Victor Mendes; Ron, Dianne and Melissa Knight

God Bless Trooper Karine Blais -Monday, April 13th, 2009

Trooper Karine Blais

Our hearts open and tears well up as we hear the news of a fallen soldier. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends - both here and those who served alongside her in Afghanistan and through training at home. God bless you Trooper Blais. You will always be remembered.

Trooper Karine Blais was killed on April 13, 2009, when the vehicle she was travelling in hit an improvised explosive device in Shah Wali Kowt, north of Kandahar City. Her deployment is still fresh in their minds and tears still dampen on the faces of her family and friends as she left Canada only two weeks ago.
Trooper Karine Blais, 21, died and four other soldiers were wounded late Monday afternoon when their armoured personnel carrier rolled over a roadside bomb in the Shah Wali Khot district, north of Kandahar.
The soldiers wounded in Monday's blast were airlifted by helicopter to a military hospital at the Kandahar airfield despite a fierce sand storm that hit the area. Two of the soldiers were being treated by medical personnel and two were released. The conditions of the two still being treated were not known.
Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance, the commander of Canadian troops in Afghanistan, said Blais had arrived in Afghanistan just two weeks ago. He praised the young woman's enthusiasm for the mission she was about to undertake.
"She was an energetic soldier who gave 100 per cent to every challenge she faced using a unique sense of humour, based on her honesty," Vance said. "Frank and direct, she demonstrated the qualities of a future leader who was respected by all members of her squadron."
Trooper Blais was a member of 12e Régiment Blindé du Canada based at Camp Valcartier, and was serving with the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group.





Condolences
If you wish to post a condolence in Trooper Blais' memory, please post it in the comment section and I will transfer it below. Thank you.

It is always so sad to see the young die for the mistakes of the old. It especially tears the heart out when they look as young and innocent as Trooper Blais.My thoughts for her family and friends, she is not forgotten. ~ SusanE
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I thank your daughter for fighting for my freedom. I am truly blessed that there are men and women who are will to put there life on the line to keep me free. To the Blais Family,I thank you for raising a daughter with such compassion in her heart to fight for my freedom. I am sorry that she is now gone but just remember the great times you had with her . ~Thank you Courtney Shakotko Courtney Shakotko