Bless Lt. Andrew Richard Nuttall - December 24th, 2009

My heart was torn when I heard of the news of our fallen soldier. I cannot imagine what his family is going through and especially during our holiday season. We need to stand beside to support them and show them we will always remember. My sympathies go out to his family, here and overseas, and all his friends and comrades. God bless.

KANDAHAR, AFGHANISTAN — A period of relative post-fighting season calm was shattered Wednesday when a Canadian soldier on foot patrol in the volatile Panjwaii district of southern Afghanistan was killed.
Lt. Andrew Richard Nuttall, along with an Afghan soldier, died when an improved explosive device detonated in the town of Nakhoney, the military said early Thursday. An interpreter was seriously injured.
Nuttall, 30, of Prince Rupert, B.C., belonged to the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry based in Edmonton.
“Andrew came to Afghanistan because he honestly thought he could make a difference to the people of Afghanistan,” said Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard, commander of coalition forces in Kandahar province.
“He wanted to lead from the front and set the example, attributes he passionately displayed every time he was in front of his platoon.”
Menard described Nuttall as generous, someone who always had a smile on his face and “greeted everyone he met with enthusiasm and goodwill.”
The death was the first in almost two months, when Sapper Steven Marshall was killed, and the first since Menard took over as top commander in Kandahar province.
Marshall died Oct. 30 in a similar incident, in what has been a record year for IED attacks in Afghanistan.
Since April 2007, 66 of the 89 Canadian deaths in Afghanistan have been the result of improvised explosive devices
With the relative quiet of the post-summer ebb in violence, Canadian soldiers, reinforced by hundreds of fresh American troops, have been attempting to establish secure areas in and around Kandahar city.
The aim, according to Menard, is to establish a “ring of stability” around the bustling city before the uptick in fighting traditionally begins in the spring, the phenomenon known as “fighting season.”
Nakhoney, about 25 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City, one part of what was dubbed the Panjwaii triangle, has been an area in which Canadian forces have frequently encountered problems.
In July, for example, Canadian and Afghan soldiers uncovered four factories used by the Taliban to make improvised explosive devices. They also seized suicide-bomber vests, large quantities of explosive materials as well as weapons.
One soldier, Pte. Sebastien Courcy was killed during the operation when he stepped on an explosive.
Menard recently cited Nakhoney as an example where the reinforced Canadian forces were having an impact in providing security for local Afghans.
At the time of his death, Nuttall was searching for Taliban transit routes, Menard said.
“His patrol was part of our efforts to protect the people of the village from insurgents.”
Nuttall is survived by his mother Jane and father Richard.
Under Menard's new strategy, soldiers are moving out of their relatively safe operating bases to move into platoon houses in the community.

Video Credit: ErikH06

Slain Victoria Soldier Remembered for Passion, Leadership as Journey Home Begins

Written by Michelle Lang , (Canada's fallen Reporter in Afghanistan)

Calgary Herald: Thursday, December 24, 2009

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD , Afghanistan — Lt. Andrew Richard Nuttall, the 134th Canadian soldier to fall in Afghanistan, began his journey home to Canada following a sombre Christmas Eve ramp ceremony.
Thousands of NATO soldiers gathered Thursday at this airfield in southern Afghanistan to honour the 30-year-old army officer who died Wednesday when a homemade bomb detonated as he led a foot patrol in the dangerous Panjwaii district southwest of Kandahar City.
Before Nuttall's flag-draped casket was loaded onto a plane, Lt.-Col. Jerry Walsh remembered him as a popular and well-respected young leader who was operating in one of the most difficult areas of Afghanistan.
"Andrew had an infectious personality and always had a smile on his face, attributes which the soldiers under his command appreciated when times were tough," said Walsh, Nuttall's commanding officer.
Nuttall, who was originally from Prince Rupert, B.C., and grew up on the west coast of Vancouver Island, was serving with the Edmonton-based 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry.
He was killed Wednesday afternoon while Canadian soldiers were on routine foot patrol near the village of Nakhonay, looking for insurgent "transit routes." The village was a Taliban supply point until November, when Canadian Forces mounted an operation to secure and hold the area.
Nuttall's platoon was living near the village — part of a new Canadian counter-insurgency strategy to develop closer relationships with the Afghan population.
In recent weeks, Walsh said many locals have told Canadian soldiers where insurgents were planting bombs in the area.
"We've had countless locals come and show us where improvised explosive devices were located," he said. "We are having great success in that regard, so this has come as a bit of a surprise to us."
Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard, Canada's top soldier in Afghanistan, said Thursday the patrol was "part of our efforts to protect the people of the village from insurgents."
"Andrew came to Afghanistan because he honestly believed that he could make a difference to the people of Afghanistan, and he demonstrated that every time he went on patrol," said Menard.
An Afghan soldier, who has not been identified, also died in the blast. An interpreter was injured in the incident.
Nuttall's death marks the end of a month-and-a-half-long period of relative calm for Canadian troops in Afghanistan.
A Canadian Forces soldier hasn't died since October 30 when Sapper Steven Marshall, an Edmonton-based combat engineer, was killed by a landmine in the Panjwaii district.
On Thursday, Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean said in a statement Nuttall's death comes at a difficult time of year, as Canadians celebrate the holiday season.
"It is a harsh reminder of the enormous sacrifices our soldiers and their loved ones have agreed to make so that stability and security can be re-established in a dangerous region of the world," she said.
B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell also issued a statement, offering his condolences to the soldier's family. "We are thankful for the courage, bravery and dedication he demonstrated in service to his country and to his fellow Canadians," Campbell said.
"During this season of family and togetherness, the loss of this brave soldier is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the dedicated men and women who work to safeguard our freedoms."
Nuttall is the son of a prominent Victoria doctor and nurse, Richard and Ethel Jane Nuttall, who have helped establish medical clinics in developing countries.
Those who knew him described Nuttall as a "superb athlete" who enjoyed cold-water surfing, teaching and working as a disc jockey.
"Andrew shared a passion for many things," said Padre Steve Defer, speaking at the ramp ceremony.
"He loved the outdoors and he loved to surf. The waves at Tofino on Vancouver Island will never be the same."
CONDOLENCES
If you would like to leave a message of condolence, enter it in the comment section and I shall transfer it below.

eulogy describing the ramp ceremony of Lt. Andrew Richard Nuttall

"I would like to express my profound condolences to the families and friends of Lieutenant Andrew Richard Nuttall, who died as the result of an improvised explosive device detonating near his patrol. Our thoughts are with the family of the Afghan National Army soldier who was killed and the ISAF interpreter who was injured during the same tragic incident. Lieutenant Andrew Richard Nuttall was an extraordinary Canadian who will always deserve recognition and respect of his ultimate sacrifice for this nation." ~Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence
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Once again, the entire country is in mourning. Lieutenant Andrew Richard Nuttall from the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton, Alberta, was killed when an anti-personnel mine exploded. A soldier from the Afghan National Army also died and an Afghan interpreter was injured. My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I are deeply saddened. This death comes at the end of a particularly difficult year and as we begin the holiday season, an important time for families.
It is a harsh reminder of the enormous sacrifices our soldiers and their loved ones have agreed to make so that stability and security can be re-established in a dangerous region of the world and to help people who have been deprived of their most fundamental rights, distressed by years of violence and oppression.
It is a harsh reminder that, day and night, despite successive attacks and the loss of their comrades, our soldiers continue to take enormous risks, and to work in and patrol mined areas of Afghanistan in the name of justice and freedom.
We will never forget Lieutenant Nuttall, his courage, his generous spirit, his sense of duty and dedication, or the ultimate sacrifice he made. At this extremely difficult time, our thoughts are with his family, his loved ones and his comrades. Our thoughts are also with all Canadian military personnel deployed abroad, far away from their families. ~Michaelle Jean

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It breaks my heart but I am so incredibly thankful that there are young men and women willing to put their lives on the line to serve our country like this. I am not involved in the military myself - have no family or friends in the Forces - but feel a swelling of pride and grief and gratitude every time I read about one of our soldiers being lost in Afghanistan. Love and hugs to this brave man's family during what will no doubt be an excruciating Christmas season.~S

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What heart-breaking news today, and in this season a jarring reminder of sacrifice, hope and the ultimate gift a human being can bestow on the rest of us. My deepest condolences to Lt. Nutall's family, friends and military colleagues. I will take what comfort I can in the knowledge that his work on this earth is done, his contribution exceeds that which most of us can even contemplate, he has gone to a better place and we are all forever in his debt. Let's carry this brave man and all his fallen colleagues in our hearts forever. Love and respect always. ~Jordana Mars

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As a mother of a soldier currently in Afghanistan I am heartbroken to hear of his death. He was truly a hero and our thoughts and prayers got out to his family and friends. I can't imagine what they are going through, especially at this time of the year. Never to be forgotten... Anonymous
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It is simply heartbreaking for all of us who pray daily for our young men and women serving.... Canada's loses a beloved son at the time we are celebrating the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.... I was looking at his photo collection and reading his blogs and it's like he's our son as well. What a beautiful young soul and he will be terribly missed. My heart and prayers go out to his family, friends and community. Andrew has the sweetest smile.... and his whole face lights up... it truly hurts deeply to lose a Canadian son. Peace of Christ ~ Old momma Nova.
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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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Repatriation -They Are Home - CFB Trenton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


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


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


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


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

God Bless Trooper Brian Richard Good - January 7th, 2009-8:00 a.m.

Bless our fallen soldier, Trooper Brian Richard Good as he is taken into God's arms. My prayers go out to his family and friends and his friends and comrades who worked and trained alongside him both here and in Afghanistan. He will always be remembered. Thank you Trooper Good. My prayers are also with our injured soldiers for comfort and recovery.

One Canadian soldier was killed and three others were injured when their armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device approximately 35 kilometres north of Kandahar City in the Shah Wali Kowt District. The incident occurred at approximately 8:00 a.m., Kandahar time, on January 7, 2009.The fallen soldier is Trooper Brian Richard Good, from The Royal Canadian Dragoons based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa. Trooper Good was serving with the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.The injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Multinational Medical Unit at Kandahar Airfield. All three soldiers are reported to be in good condition. Their names will not be released.
The thoughts and prayers of every member of Joint Task Force Afghanistan are with Trooper Good's family and friends during this very difficult time.

Trooper Brian Richard Good was killed when his armoured vehicle struck an improvised explosive device approximately 35 kilometers north of Kandahar City in the Shah Wali Kowt on January 7, 2009.
Trooper Brian Richard Good, from The Royal Canadian Dragoons based at Canadian Forces Base Petawawa. Trooper Good was serving with the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.
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 more than 2,750 CF members. Most of them serve at Kandahar Airfield or Camp Nathan Smith, the home of the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Kandahar City. CF members also work at various military headquarters and support bases in southwest Asia, and with civilian organizations in Afghanistan.
Le Soldat Brian Richard Good a été tué lorsque son véhicule blindé a touché un engin explosif improvisé à environ 35 kilomètres de Kandahar City, dans le district de Shah Wali Kowt le 7 janvier 2009.
Le Soldat Brian Richard Good, appartenait à l’unité The Royal Canadian Dragoons basée à la Base des Forces canadiennes Petawawa. Le Soldat Good servait à titre de membre du groupement tactique du 3e Bataillon, The Royal Canadian Regiment.
La Force opérationnelle interarmées en Afghanistan (JTF-Afg) est la contribution des Forces canadiennes (FC) à l’effort international en Afghanistan. Ses opérations portent sur le travail avec les autorités afghanes pour améliorer la sécurité, la gouvernance et le développement économique en Afghanistan.

The commanding officer of the Ottawa soldier who died in Afghanistan Wednesday says Trooper Brian Richard Good died doing what he wanted to do and that he strongly believed in improving the lives of people living in Afghanistan through the efforts of the Canadian Forces fighting there.
His colleagues say it made no difference that Trooper Good joined the military late in life and at 42, was serving alongside men and women more than half his age.
One day after he was killed in a roadside bomb attack, Good's fellow soldiers remembered a man who could be trusted to never break his word; a man who was devoted to his job as a driver of a light-armoured vehicle, to his unit and to his family, including his wife, Sandra, and daughters Kayla and Jessica.

Ramp Ceremony "These are qualities that transform just another soldier into a buddy who's got your back," said Padre Dave Donevan during Thursday's ramp ceremony. Canadian soldiers said goodbye to Trooper Good, Thursday at a sombre ramp ceremony in Afghanistan. About 2,400 troops representing various NATO countries came out to pay their respects as Good's flag-draped coffin was slowly carried into the back of a waiting transport plane in preparation for the flight back to Canada.
Also in attendance at Kandahar Airfield were the three soldiers injured in the same blast that killed Good. Two men were able to stand during the ceremony, while one soldier remained seated in a wheelchair.
At CFB Petawawa, Ont., Col. Dean Milner, commander of 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group, also said Good was a hero to his fellow soldiers as well as "to this brigade and the rest of the Canadian Forces," he said.
Despite the fact that Milner has commanded thousands of soldiers and trains about 2,500 at a time, he said Good left an impression on him during training exercises.
"I definitely remember him . . . I remember him as one of those soldiers who stood out. Very bright. A soldier that has lots of experience because of the fact that he joined the forces late. He stood out as one of those guys who liked to talk to you. Again, from the troops, a real team player. I can distinctly pick his face out."
He said Good was a great "dad" to the many soldiers in their early 20s serving in Afghanistan.
"He played that experienced, mature, father figure with the troops," said Milner.
At Kandahar Airfield, Maj. Brian Healey, deputy commanding officer of 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, said the recent heavy death toll has been "tough" on soldiers.
But, he said, "We're here to do a job. We're here to take care of the Afghan people and I think the soldiers are ever more committed to do that right now."
Funeral details for Good were not made available, but services were expected to be held in Ottawa.

Condolences (If you would like to post a message of condolence, enter it on the comments section and I will transfer it below. Thank you)


"We wish to express first-hand, how proud we are of Brian. Brian was a caring, outgoing and dedicated family man and Brian died doing what he wanted to do and what he truly believed in. Brian will be greatly missed. He will be remembered as our and Canada's hero. At this time we would like to extend out sincere thank you to our Canadian Forces for their tremendous support to our family in this difficult time." ~ Family of Trooper Good

"We have once again received terrible news from Afghanistan, having just learned that Trooper Brian Richard Good was killed and three others were injured when an improvised explosive device detonated in the Shah Wali Kowt District. A member of The Royal Canadian Dragoons, Trooper Brian Richard Good was serving with the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group. The relentless violence with which our troops are confronted in Afghanistan continues on a daily basis.
My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, joins me in extending our sincerest condolences on behalf of all Canadians to the family, loved ones, friends and comrades in arms who are mourning the loss of this courageous soldier, a generous man who was driven by his desire to help a population in danger and by his sense of duty. Our thoughts also go out to the wounded, to whom we wish a full recovery, and to their families who are also grappling with this tragedy.
I have the utmost respect for all members of the Canadian Forces, who are risking their lives to ensure the success of this very difficult mission in Afghanistan, the purpose of which is to secure and rebuild a country that has been ravaged by so much hardship, misery and inhumanity. " ~Michaelle Jean

"I would like to offer my most sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Trooper Brian Richard Good, who died today in Afghanistan when the armoured vehicle he was travelling in struck an improvised explosive device north of Kandahar City. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of loss.
I would also like to wish a speedy recovery to the three Canadian soldiers injured in the same incident. Our thoughts are very much with you during this difficult time. Despite our grief, we will continue to contribute to the United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission to bring peace and stability to the people of Afghanistan. Whether improving the security situation in order to set the conditions for reconstruction and development, or providing humanitarian assistance, the Canadian Forces are making a considerable difference in a country that has seen decades of war. Rest assured that Trooper Good's sacrifice was not made in vain.
Trooper Good served his country proudly. He will not be forgotten." ~ Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence

My prayers are lifted for Trooper Good and his family who loves him so! ~AirmanMom

Repatriation Ceremony Tentatively Scheduled for Saturday

Our fallen soldier, Trooper Brian Richard Good will be coming home on Saturday per Public Affairs Officer, Lieutenant Annie Morin. The repatriation ceremony will be held on Saturday, January 10th, 2009 at 2:00 pm.
A ramp ceremony was held at the Kandahar Airfield today (Thursday, January 8th, 2009)
It will be another sombre occasion at CFB Trenton this Saturday. Please remember to pay tribute to the family and our soldier on the overpasses of the 401 (Highway of Heroes) between Trenton and Toronto. Let the family know that they are not alone.

Canadian Soldiers in Kandahar Hand out Toys to Children for Christmas Eve

Canadian soldiers in Kandahar hand out toys to children for Christmas Eve

Credit: CBC

Canadian soldiers outside Kandahar Air Field in southern Afghanistan faced a rowdy crowd of local civilians Wednesday but the encounter had a happy outcome.
Dozens of Afghan children walked away from the meeting with soldiers carrying stuffed toys, new clothes and other Christmas gifts from Canada's Armed Forces.
Two military trucks pulled up just outside the main base at the airfield and soldiers were immediately surrounded by boys and girls of all ages. Troops handed down purple, white and lime-green teddy bears, bars of soap, sweaters and scarves.
Despite the bright winter sunshine, the warm clothing is essential, according to Canadian troops involved in the exercise.
"It gets cold around here at night this time of year," said Cpl. Lisa Parianos, adding with a smile, " We tried to get it out in an orderly fashion but didn't work out so well."
Parianos was one of several Canadian Forces soldiers giving away the toys and clothing. In charge was Chief Warrant Officer Mike Hayes, who said the decision to give away surplus school supplies and toys was made earlier this week.
"We knew we had a lot of [leftover] stuff and we knew this was a good time to hand them out, so we brought them out on Christmas Eve," said Hayes, who serves as a liaison between the military and local people.
He said in 32 years of military service he was spending his first Christmas away from his family in Canada.
Parianos told CBC's David Common that the giveaway was an attempt to add some holiday spirit to life in Kandahar.
"It doesn't feel like Christmas here," she said. "We don't have anything Christmas-like here, so we're trying to make it feel that way by giving gifts to people."
Afghan women watched the gift distribution from the balconies of bombed-out apartment buildings, some exhorting their children to get closer to the action around the two Canadian military vehicles. Some called for young girls who'd missed out as boys jostled around the trucks to be given their share of the booty.
This is the seventh Christmas that Canadian forces have been in Afghanistan, with this country's soldiers involved in the U.S. led coalition in the country since October 2001.
In 2005, Canada joined the NATO mission to Afghanistan and deployed its forces in Kandahar province.
About 2,500 troops are involved in the Afghan deployment.

Santa Brings Festivities to Kandahar

PHOTO CREDIT: Darah Hansen/Canwest News Service

December 24, 2008


KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Afghanistan - Santa Claus touched down at Kandahar Air Field Wednesday and spread some Christmas cheer to some of the 2,500 Canadian soldiers stationed in Afghanistan.
Troops on the base enjoyed a festive celebration and in addition to receiving treats from the man in the red suit, they were entertained by Canadian comedian Mike Macdonald and Ottawa singer Kathleen Edwards.
"I'm very honoured to have been asked to come here," Edwards told the crowd of soldiers. "I've had a most incredible time."
The troops, some donning Santa hats and other festive accessories along with their uniforms, enjoyed the festivities.
"The last couple of days have been busy for us," said Capt. John Pilon."The next few hours we'll relax."
The party provided some laughs and a few hours of revelry but it's hard to be away from home for Christmas, one soldier said.
"It sucks," said Master Cpl. Tom Dillon. "It's one of those things you do for your country."
Earlier in the day, Canadian soldiers handed out gifts to Afghan children near the base. An anxious crowd of local Afghans crowded around two military trucks and received toys, school supplies, stuffed animals, clothing, hats, scarves and toiletries.
"It gets cold around here at night this time of year," said Cpl. Lisa Tarianos, one of the soldiers involved in the exercise. "We thought we could try and get out there in an orderly fashion but it didn't work so well," she said with a smile.
She also spoke about the difficulty of being so far away from Canada at Christmas.
"It doesn't feel like Christmas," she said. "We don't have anything Christmas-like here, so we were trying to do something that felt good. We were trying to make it feel like Christmas by giving and doing what we can."
Chief Warrant Officer Mike Hayes, who was in charge of the gift delivery, said it was his first Christmas away from home in his 32-year career. He said the Afghan children were excited to receive the gifts.
"The children were just loving it," he said. "We just happen to pick Christmas Eve," he said. "We knew we had a lot of supplies, we thought it was a good time for us to do it, so we brought them out today on Christmas Eve."