It is with sorrow today that we learn of the news of our fallen Canadian Soldier. We pray that the Todd family is embraced with love on this very tragic day. Sincerest condolences are sent to friends and family of Pte. Tyler William Todd in particular the comrades who served alongside Tyler in Canada and in Afghanistan. Canada shares your pain and our thoughts are with you through this difficult journey...Rest In Peace...Private, you will be missed.
Menard praised Todd as a person. “Tyler was a practical joker; he would often hide rocks and candies in the other soldier’s bed spaces,” he said. “He never allowed the small things to get to him and was often the rock that other soldiers could depend on.” Bless you Private. Thank you for your dilegence, bravery, courage and commitment to your country. You will never be forgotten. ~m.m.
More than 1,500 Canadian and allied NATO soldiers gathered on the runway here at a ramp ceremony Monday morning to say goodbye to Pte. Tyler William Todd.
"He was my best friend, more like a brother to me," said Pte. Kristian Winter. "It was an honour to have known him. Todd was the type of guy who kept everybody happy at all times. He'd always cheer you up.
"It was a terrible loss for everybody in the Eleven Platoon and lots of people in his battle group."
Todd was on a foot patrol when he was hit by the explosion, which wounded another soldier, who watched Monday's ceremony from a wheelchair beside the plane that would fly Todd's body toward home.
"Tyler's dedication to the mission was only surpassed by his commitment to his family," said Maj. Wayne Niven, commander of Todd's Delta Company. "Extremely proud of his family, he constantly regaled his buddies about stories from home."
Todd had a blanket that his parents made, Winter said.
"No matter how much we bugged him about it, he brought it everywhere," Winter said, breaking down in tears. 
Repatriation Ceremonies will be held at CFB Trenton on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Following, Pte Todd's family will accompany him on the Highway of Heroes.
Join hundreds of other Canadians on the overpasses of the Highway of Heroes (Hwy 401W between Trenton and Victoria Park Avenue Toronto) Hold a flag, wear red, honour our fallen hero and let his family know we are here to support them, standing beside them and show our gratitude for his courage.
Obituary - Saying Goodbye
TODD, Tyler William It is with great sadness the family announces the sudden passing of Tyler William Todd while serving with the 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in Afghanistan. Tyler Todd of RR#1, Bright, Ontario was in his 27th year. Loving son of Bryan and Bev (Doan) Todd of RR#1 Bright. Dear brother of Samantha and her husband Brett Witzel of Woodstock and Jenna Todd and her friend Dave Smith of RR#1 Bright. Tyler is survived by his grandmother Jackie Grimes and by his aunts, uncles and cousins. Predeceased by his grandparents Don Doan and John and Trudy Todd. Tyler graduated from Huron Park Secondary School, Conestoga College Fire Fighting Program and was a former member of the Bright Fire Department and had played hockey with the Bright Mulisha Hockey Club. Relatives and friends may call at the Glendinning Funeral Home , 40 William St., Plattsville on Saturday 7-9 p.m. and Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral Service will be conducted at the Plattsville Missionary Church on Monday, April 19, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Private Family interment in Innerkip Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Wounded Warrior Fund or the Royal Canadian Legion Poppy Fund (cheques accepted) would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences can be sent at www.gffh.ca
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Condolences
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It was with great sadness that my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I learned of the death of another member of the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan, Private Tyler William Todd of the 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton, Alberta.
He was killed when an improvised explosive device planted by terrorists went off while he was on patrol in the Dand district, approximately eight kilometres south-west of Kandahar.
This new tragedy occurred just days after a national commemorative ceremony to mark "The End of an Era", during which thousands of Canadians honoured the brave contribution veterans made during the First World War. At this ceremony, I emphasized the importance of perpetuating the heritage left by the men and women who fought for greater justice, freedom and humanity, because—today, as in the past—our soldiers in Afghanistan are fighting the same battle, in the name of the same values, with the same selflessness and extraordinary determination.
In the face of countless dangers, Private Tyler William Todd's brothers and sisters in arms are fully committed to completing their difficult mission with unwavering resolve.
Our thoughts are with the family, loved ones and colleagues of the courageous and generous Private Tyler William Todd, and we would like to offer them our most sincere condolences and deepest sympathy. His noble sacrifice will remain forever etched in our memory.
Michaëlle Jean
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"On behalf of the Defence family and our brave men and women in uniform, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Private Tyler William Todd, who died today in Afghanistan. He was killed by an improvised explosive device while on foot patrol in the Dand district, approximately eight kilometres southwest of Kandahar City. My best wishes for a speedy recovery also go out to his comrade who was injured in the same incident.
Pte. Todd was a professional, dedicated Canadian soldier who served valiantly alongside his comrades to help build a better and brighter future for Afghans. With the help of Canada and our international partners, Afghans are re-establishing themselves and their communities after decades of hardship and turmoil.
Our Canadian Forces members participating in this United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission face an enemy that will go to any length to try to undermine any progress made. The courage demonstrated by Pte. Todd speaks volumes to his dedication to our country and to this mission. Canada will remain steadfast, and Taliban attacks will not deter our efforts to help Afghanistan achieve peace and stability.
Let us never forget Pte. Todd, whose self-sacrifice served to make life better for others." Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence
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On behalf of me and my entire family and the Municipality of Clarington, we thank you Tyler for keeping us all safe!!
Our hearts are with you and your family.
We will be waiting to thank you personally as you pass through Newcastle On.
Thanks Again Tyler,
God Bless,
Jeremy Woodcock
Clarington Mayoral Candidate
~To a hero and friend thank you. thoughts and prayers with you and your family now and always rest in peace Ty.
A Hero's Welcome
On April 24th, 2009 we will be celebrating the safe return of the largest number of veterans to come home to Waterloo Region at one time in more than half a century. You can be part of this joyful event that will feature a dinner, dance and entertainment. Thank a veteran returning from Afghanistan in person. It's time to show your appreciation for their sacrifices.
Open to the Public. Limited Seating. Black Tie Optional.
Join the Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada as well as special dignitaries for an entertaining evening as we give thanks for our soldiers' safe return.
When: Friday, April 24, 2009 Cocktails at 6:00 p.m. Dinner at 7:00 p.m. Dance at 9:00 p.m
Where: Bingemans Ballroom, 425 Bingeman Centre Drive, Kitchener, Ontario
Tickets $150.00
For more information click here
Per Notice on Auditorium Door, please note that the Military Band and Fireworks Display has been postponed from May 17, 2008 to May 24th, 2008. 
CANADIAN FORCES ARE PROUD TO BE PART OF THE 2008 MasterCard MEMORIAL CUP
The MasterCard Memorial Cup will celebrate 90 years of major junior hockey excellence in Kitchener May 16 - 26th. With an impressive display of current and historic Canadian military vehicles…along with a world class fireworks display there will be something for everyone.
Hockey fans will be able to get up close and personal with such military vehicles as a 2.5-ton Gun Tractor and a 10-ton Wrecker, as well as a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat, a state-of-the-art Recruiting Trailer and an army howitzer.“There will be plenty to see and do at the Canadian Forces exhibit”, says Captain Scott Costen, spokesman for 31 Canadian Brigade Group. “Some of our biggest and best vehicles will be on display, as well as one of the army’s largest weapon systems.”
Canadian Forces Military Display
The Canadian Forces Military Display will be located within Toyota Fan Fest at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium (Military Road area off East Avenue) throughout the entire Memorial Cup Championship. Juno The Bear – the Army’s official Mascot, will also be on hand to meet the public and hand out souvenirs. Members of the public will get a chance to meet CF members, learn more about careers in the military, and see some of their latest vehicles and equipment.
They will also have an opportunity to tour the local armoury, and enjoy a military band performance.
Most importantly, Memorial Cup attendees will have a chance to join today’s CF members in honouring the heroism and sacrifice of our veterans.
History of the Memorial Cup
The Canadian Forces Military Display will support the Memorial Cup, which was donated by the Ontario Hockey Association in 1919 as a memorial and honour of the Canadians who fought and died in the First World War. The Memorial Cup and its message of remembrance are as relevant today as they were nine decades ago.
With the service and sacrifice of Canadian Forces (CF) members in Afghanistan, the connection between earlier generations of war veterans and current military personnel has grown stronger. This connection is revealed in many ways, including increased military participation at the Memorial Cup, and renewed emphasis on the origins of junior hockey’s national championship trophy. CF members will be active participants in this year’s Memorial Cup festivities. Our men and women in uniform will transport the Memorial Cup championship trophy to Kitchener and proudly escort it throughout the event.
Canadian Armed Forces Marching Band and World Class Fireworks
When: Saturday, May 17th, 2008 at 9 p.m.
Where: Centennial Stadium (adjacent to the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium)
..............400 East Avenue, Kitchener, ON
Cost: FREE
A Canadian Armed Forces Marching Band will also provide entertainment on Saturday May 17th when Centennial Stadium (adjacent to to Kitchener Memorial Auditorium) plays host to a world-class Fireworks Display.The Fireworks Display will be produced by Whysall Fireworks of Ariss, who recently won an International Fireworks Competition in Vietnam and is also responsible for producing the annual Canada Day fireworks display at the University of Waterloo.The Fireworks Display will begin at dusk, and is open to everyone and admission is free. Be sure to come early and enjoy this spectacular evening.
Thursday's Arrival Parade and Ceremonies
The Memorial Cup – to be presented to the winner of the 2008 MasterCard Memorial Cup Championship - officially arrived in Kitchener on Thursday May 15th. To celebrate the Cup’s arrival, the community was invited to attend a special ceremony planned at Civic Square at Kitchener City Hall b at 11:30 am. The Cup was delivered to City Hall by the Canadian Armed Forces in an Armoured Personnel Carrier as part of a Military Procession that featured approximately 100 Veterans and a Colour Guard.
The President of the Canadian Hockey League and Commissioner of the Ontario Hockey League – David Branch - will formally presented the Memorial Cup to Kitchener Mayor Carl Zehr during a ceremony that will also included the Honourable Greg Thompson, Federal Minister of Veterans Affairs as well as Steve Bienkowski and John Thompson – the Chair and General Manager respectively, of the 2008 MasterCard Memorial Cup Host Committee.
“It is certainly an honour for the City of Kitchener to welcome the Memorial Cup and to host one of the nation’s most prestigious junior hockey tournaments,” said Mayor Zehr. “We take great pride in celebrating the cup’s arrival and we wish the Kitchener Rangers all the best as they compete to keep it right here at home.”
Following the presentation, the public was invited to view the Memorial Cup, meet members of the Kitchener Rangers Hockey Team, and enjoy a community BBQ complete with a Memorial Cup cake and entertainment provided by the Twin City Harmonizers and Shane Guse.
 Photo: ROBERT WILSON Kitchener Chief Fire Prevention Officer Tom Ruggle (right) and Kitchener native Ryan Filsinger (left), 23, pose beside a support the troop decal on a Kitchener fire vehicle. Ruggle, a captain with the Lorne Scots reserve regiment, will leave in two weeks for Afghanistan. Filsinger is training for deployment in 2008. |
KITCHENER, Ontario (Jul 18, 2007)
Yellow ribbons are starting to make an appearance on emergency vehicles in Kitchener and Waterloo.
The ribbons, symbolizing support for Canadian soldiers overseas, were added to Waterloo's 15 fire trucks and support vehicles last week.
Yesterday, the Kitchener Fire Department affixed its first ribbon to one of 20 support vehicles.
The entire fleet won't be outfitted until a small kink is worked out. The ribbon magnets ordered by the city won't stick to the department's aluminum-sided trucks.
That problem has also delayed putting the decals on the region's aluminum-backed ambulances, though stickers ordered for those vehicles are expected to arrive before Aug. 1, said John Prno, director of Emergency Medical Services.
The Waterloo and Cambridge fire departments ordered the yellow stickers as well, a move Kitchener will follow, Chief Tim Beckett said.
The glitch didn't prevent the Kitchener department from holding a ceremony yesterday, where the first ribbon was stuck on a magnet-friendly vehicle.
Military families, politicians, soldiers and firefighters gathered at fire department headquarters on Strasburg Road to watch as Beckett placed a ribbon on a command vehicle.
"It means the world to me and puts a smile on my face knowing people care about this," said Ryan Filsinger, 23, a Kitchener native who is home on leave from his pre-deployment training out West.
Filsinger is a member of the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Man. He will leave for Afghanistan in February.
"It's just great to come home and see the yellow ribbons and know people are thinking of you," he said.
"I always tell people, 'You don't have to support the mission but support the guys who are leaving their families behind to serve the country.' "
Filsinger's father, Paul, is a member of Families of Canadian Soldiers in Afghanistan, the local group that asked that decals and magnets be allowed on municipal vehicles.
The ribbons have sparked controversy locally and nationwide, with opponents arguing they imply support for the military mission in Afghanistan.
The family group has maintained the ribbons are a symbol of Canadians supporting Canadians serving abroad as well as their families at home and aren't politically motivated.
A number of the group's members were present yesterday as Paul Filsinger presented the fire department with several magnets and thanked the city and emergency services for their support.
"It really does mean a lot to the families," he said. "This is just another tangible way for the city to show their support."
Two members of the Kitchener Fire Department serve in the reserves -- one returned from Afghanistan earlier this year and another is set to start his tour in two weeks.
"It touches very close to the Kitchener Fire Department," Beckett said. "This is just a small token of what we can do to say thanks and safe return."
Tom Ruggle, Kitchener's chief fire prevention officer, is a reservist with the Lorne Scots and one of nearly 2,500 soldiers who will be deployed in coming weeks.
Ruggle is on military leave but returned to the fire station dressed in his sand-coloured fatigues to watch the ribbon ceremony.
The reserves are rooted in the community, he said, so it's nice to see community recognition of their efforts.
"It's nice to know when you leave, when you're over there and when you come back home, you've got something to come back to," he said.
More than 30 members of the Waterloo Region-based reserve units -- the Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada and the 48 Field Engineer Squadron -- are preparing for a tour in Afghanistan in 2008.
Last week, Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge councils agreed to allow the yellow ribbons on all their vehicles. The region agreed to allow the ribbons on its ambulances.
The municipalities are waiting for the rest of the ribbons to arrive and they'll likely start showing up on vehicles next week.
The Kitchener Fire Department hopes to have its stickers in place by the beginning of the week, Beckett said.
Waterloo regional police have designed a yellow ribbon pin, which officers can wear on their uniforms to show support for the troops.
Surprise Press Conference At Kitchener Legion
Prime Minister Harper addresses Canadian Veterans
Harper Government Delivers
Veterans' Bill Of Rights
The Polish Legion on Wellington Street Kitchener was packed with veterans bearing their medals of honour. A reminder of battles fought, comrades lost, and to some, years of living with disabilities without adequate financial resources and meaningful, effective representation.
Today Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s announced that Canada’s New Government is following through on its commitment to create a Veterans’ Bill of Rights and a Veterans’’ Ombudsman. The announcement should mean that Veterans past present and future will be treated with respect and not end up the forgotten ones when the fighting stops.
“The brave men and women of the Canadian Forces and RCMP have always acted courageously when called upon; and it’s because Veterans have always been willing to stand up for our country and its interests, Canada’s New Government is standing by them now,” said the Prime Minister.
The Bill of Rights will take effect immediately; will strengthen the government’s ability to respond quickly and fairly, to the concerns of Canada’s Veterans. It is a clear and concise statement that will allow Veterans Affairs to continue to ensure every Canadian veteran is treated with respect, with dignity and with fairness.
The Ombudsman, whom is yet to be chosen, will operate at arms-length from the government, and will play an important role in raising the awareness of the needs and concerns of Veterans. The Ombudsman will submit a report to the Minister on an annual basis, which will be tabled in Parliament.
“Our Veterans have given their very best to Canada,” said Prime Minister Harper. “Through the Veterans’ Bill of Rights and Veterans’ Ombudsman, our government is taking yet another step to ensure that Canada does its very best for the,” he said in closing.
A symbolic presentation was then made by the Prime Minister and Veterans Affairs Minister Greg Thompson to a local Veteran.
Note: Unfortunately, PM Harper did not define Veteran in his speech. Who is he referring to? We can assume it is all Veterans - from WWI to present soldiers returning from Afghanistan, but we need to know.
For Immediate Release
February 19, 2007
Kitchener Ties Yellow Ribbons to Honour Troops
KITCHENER – In honour of local soldiers returning from Afghanistan, the City of Kitchener has attached yellow ribbons to the front of City Hall. The ribbons are a sign of the community’s appreciation for our local servicemen and servicewomen.
They are also a “welcome home” gesture for the several area residents who will be returning from duty periodically for the next three weeks.
“We truly appreciate those who left friends and family behind and travelled so far from home in service to their country,” said Mayor Carl Zehr. “We want to warmly welcome them home.”
A growing number of people are showing their support for Canadian troops by tying yellow ribbons to their homes and businesses, and several area municipalities have followed suit.
The ribbons will be in place at Kitchener City Hall until approximately March 12th.
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For more information:
Cathy Gravelle
Office of the Mayor and Council
City of Kitchener
519-741-2859
cathy.gravelle@kitchener.ca
Michael May
Director of Corporate Communications and Marketing
City of Kitchener
519-741-2935
michael.may@kitchener.ca
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