1,000 Inmates Escape From Afghan Prison After Blast

Canadian Troops Search Kandahar After Massive Jail Break

Jailbreak frees over 1000 Prisoners ( including some 350 Taliban militants) into Kandahar's Streets - a lot of hard work undone.

Canadian soldiers joined allied and Afghan national security forces in a sweeping door-to-door urban hunt for hundreds of escaped prisoners Friday after the Taliban staged a daring mass breakout at Kandahar City's Sarposa Prison.
A suicide bomber drove to the prison's main entrance and detonated his vehicle Friday around 9:30 p.m. local time.
The massive explosion, heard across the Afghanistan's second-largest city, destroyed the gate and a police checkpoint, burying guards under rubble and killing scores.
Witnesses said as many as 30 motorcycles then raced forward, carrying armed men firing rocket-propelled grenades, machine guns and AK-47s. A second hole was blasted in a rear wall of the prison, the largest such facility in southern Afghanistan.
During the ensuing 20-minute battle inside the prison and in the city's west side, hundreds of prisoners were able to flee.
Wali Karzai, president of Kandahar's provincial council and the brother of President Hamid Karzai, told local reporters a short time later that all the inmates had fled. Late into the night, however, it remained unclear exactly how many escaped from the prison, which houses almost 1,200 inmates, including about 400 Taliban militants.
Some prison officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, estimated that as many as 800 prisoners managed to escape, while an unknown number were killed in a gun battle between police and Taliban fighters inside the jail.
"I think scores of others are caught up inside," one prison official told Reuters.
The blast caused an unknown number of casualties among the guards, prison director Abdul Qadir told Reuters.
"They (Taliban) used a truck to blow the gate open and all of the guards (at the gate) have been killed and are under rubble," he said by telephone. As he spoke, bursts of gunfire could be heard in the background.
A Taliban spokesman said the group was claiming responsibility.
Rockets were also fired at nearby Camp Nathan Smith, home of the Canadian-led Provincial Reconstruction Team, but witnesses said they fell far short.
Members of a Canadian Forces company protecting the team were among hundreds of security forces who responded to the daring attack, which came just days after Kandahar province's police chief, Brig.-Gen. Sayed Agha Saqib, told reporters here that the security situation in the city was good.
"We believe that the situation is under control," Joint Task Force Afghanistan spokesman Maj. Jay Janzen told reporters at Kandahar Airfield several hours after the brazen attack.
A security cordon had been established and a massive overnight search operation was launched in the city.
Canadian military sources could not initially confirm witness reports that Canadian tanks were rolling through the city.
The Canadian military's Janzen said International Security Assistance Force troops had helped establish a "security perimeter" in the area as the search continues for the many fugitives.
The stunningly successful attack comes at a time when Taliban insurgent activity is flaring up in Afghanistan's volatile south, where most of Canada's 2,500 troops in the country are deployed.
"We believe things are improving," said Janzen. "We're working hard with our Afghan allies to bring stability to the region."
The U.S. military has handed over an unspecified number of suspected Taliban fighters to Afghan custody under a program agreed to last year to transfer all Afghan prisoners from U.S. detention.
The U.S. military has arrested thousands of suspected Taliban and al-Qaida militants since invading Afghanistan in 2001 to help topple the Taliban government.
Last month, some 200 Taliban suspects being held at Sarposa, some of them without trial for more than two years, staged a week-long hunger strike before a parliamentary delegation promised their cases would be reviewed.
The number of al-Qaida-backed Taliban attacks has increased since 2006 and the prison raid ranks as one of the biggest.
The militants tried to assassinate President Hamid Karzai in April when he was attending a military parade near the presidential palace in Kabul. They are active mostly in southern and eastern areas near the border with Pakistan.
Canada, through the Provincial Reconstruction Team, is currently involved in the physical restoration of the mud-walled Sarposa and the training of its guards.
Friday's attack came a day after international donors in Paris pledged more than $20 billion for Afghanistan's development and security projects.
The resurgence of Taliban comes despite the presence of more than 60,000 foreign troops, including 2,500 Canadian troops, under the command of NATO and the U.S. military, as well as more than 150,000 government forces.
Liberal Senator Colin Kenny, chair of the Senate's defence committee, said the prison break raises disturbing questions about the conduct of coalition troops in Afghanistan.
He questioned how Canadian or other troops with the International Security Assistance Force failed to detect, with night-vision equipment, the after-dark movements of the attackers.
Kenny, whose committee recently returned from Kandahar, said the attack clearly shows there are not enough soldiers in southern Afghanistan.
His committee released a report this week, calling for an additional 4,000 NATO troops in the southern region.
Also on Friday, U.S. Defence Secretary Robert Gates pressed fellow alliance defence ministers to contribute more troops to Afghanistan, but failed to get firm commitments.

What are your thoughts on this? ....

• Do you think the guards were involved?


• Will we be able to capture the insurgents including Taliban escapees?


• Should the insurgents have been kept in a prison in the same country where they are still fighting or should they have been transported out of country after capture?


• Should we go into Pakistan to re-capture fled prisoners?

Let me know how you feel. (you can post comments anonymously if you wish)

Canada won't leave until Afghan Work Done

PARIS - Canada, one of numerous countries pledging money at a conference here aimed at ramping up western government and public support for the Afghanistan mission, won't follow through on its promise to end its military role in Kandahar in 2011, an Afghan parliamentarian predicted Thursday.
Dr. Zalmai, chairman of a National Assembly committee responsible for dealing with corruption complaints, said he's confident Canada won't withdraw its 2,500 troops from Kandahar until the international community decides Afghanistan is ready.
``We are with the people of Canada, we appreciate their sacrificing, their help, their contributing to the reconstruction of Afghanistan,'' said Zalmai, who goes by only one name.
``As a parliamentarian I'm sure Canada will remain with us. They will never leave the Afghan people,'' he said.
His comments, made prior to Foreign Affairs Minister David Emerson's presentation to the conference, echo those of two members of a Senate committee that tabled a report Wednesday assessing Canada's progress in Afghanistan.
Liberal Senator Colin Kenny, chairman of the Senate's national security and defence committee, and Conservative Senator Michael Meighen both said they doubted Canada will be able to pull out its troops by then.
One analyst said the Canadian government and Parliament are erring by setting a strict departure time.
Thomas Ruttig, former senior official to both the European Union and the United Nations on Afghanistan matters, said departure times help the Taliban intimidate Afghans who are tempted to co-operate with western soldiers and aid workers.
``Of course the Taliban go around saying, `we have all the time in the world, we'll just wait until all these guys are gone,''' Ruttig told Canwest News Service.
The daylong conference opened Thursday with speeches by French President Nicolas Sarkozy, Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai, and United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon.
Ban praised Karzai's government for promising to stamp out corruption, but said action has to be put behind those words with prosecutions against high- level offenders in government.
``I applaud Afghanistan for signing the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, and I urge the government to take active measures to ensure that it is implemented,'' Ban said.
Karzai, meanwhile, painted a rosy picture of his country's achievements and future objectives in areas such as economic growth, democratic development and human rights.
He called for a long-term international commitment to his country and said Afghanistan's needs include an emphasis on dam rehabilitation and agriculture.
Emerson is expected to share details about Canada's recent announcement that it will increase development and reconstruction aid to Afghanistan from $1.3 billion to $1.9 billion over the 10-year period ending in 2011, when Canada has said it will end its ``military presence'' in Kandahar province.
Canada, one of the world's largest aid donors to Afghanistan, will target the money towards three ``signature'' projects - the rehabilitation of a dam in order to create jobs and boost the agriculture economy in Afghanistan, the construction or renovation of 50 schools, and an expansion of a polio immunization program.
The United States, France, Germany, Japan and the World Bank also pledged billions of dollars more in reconstruction aid to Afghanistan in combined contributions.

Families and Friends to Honour Soldiers at Cambridge's Canada Day Parade July 1st 2008

Cambridge was buzzes with pride and curiosity as thousands of spectators wait with great anticipation for the start of the parade celebrating Canada's 140th Birthday!

Once again, FOCSIA (Families of Soldiers Serving in Afghanistan) will be honouring all soldiers and celebrating Canada during Cambridge ON's Canada Day Parade July 1st, 2008.

Join the soldiers' families along the parade route.. wear your RED - walk with them - but most of all ... honour our soldiers returned, preparing to deploy and those currently serving overseas.

Country's Largest Canada Day Parade

Where: starts from Bishop & King St. to Riverside Park, Cambridge, ON

When: July 1st, 2008 at 1:00 p.m.

Fly-over by The Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association

Support Group for Parents of Canadian Soliders in Afghanistan

FAMILIES OF CANADIAN SOLDIERS IN AFGHANISTAN

If you are a parent or family member of a Canadian Soldier in Southwestern Ontario and you are looking for a support group, email for more information: focsia@hotmail.com or kerrytownson@rogers.com

June 7th 2007 - Bless Captain Jonathan Sutherland Snyder

It is with sadness on this day we announce the death of our brave Canadian Soldier, Captain Jonathan Sutherland Snyder.

On Saturday, June 7th, 2008, a soldier was killed at approximately 9:00 p.m., Kandahar time. The soldier was killed after falling into a well while conducting a security patrol in Zhari District.The fallen soldier is Captain Jonathan (Jon) Sutherland Snyder of the 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton, Alberta.Members of Captain Snyder's patrol tried to extract him from the well, but were unsuccessful. Medical, engineering and search and rescue assets were rushed to the scene, and Capt Snyder was lifted out of the well. He was evacuated by helicopter to the Multi-National Medical Unit at Kandahar Airfield, but sadly was pronounced dead upon arrival.This accident has impacted us all, and the thoughts and prayers of the entire Canadian Task Force are with Capt Snyder's family and friends. We are deeply saddened by his death, and will not forget his commitment and dedication to his fellow soldiers and to this mission. Capt Snyder gave his life while mentoring Afghan soldiers as they conducted operations to enhance security for the people of Zhari District. We will not forget his sacrifice.
Capt Snyder, le 7 juin 2008Aujourd’hui, vers 21 h, heure de Kandahar, le Capitaine Jonathan (Jon) Sutherland Snyder est décédé après être tombé dans un puits au cours d’une patrouille de sécurité dans le district de Zhari. Le Capt Snyder était un membre du 1st Bataillon, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, basé à Edmonton, en Alberta.

God Bless you Captain Snyder and all your families and friends, both here and in Afghanistan.

Lieutenant General Natynczyk Appointed as Chief of the Defence Staff

Our New Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)

Lieutenant General Natynczyk

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


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

Bless Captain Richard Leary - June 03, 2008

He is home. Our Hero is home.

I

Wednesday, June 03, 2008

It is with sadness that I announce that one of our Canadian soldiers was killed today at approximately 9:30 a.m., Kandahar time (0100Cnd). He was killed by direct fire when a joint Afghan-Canadian dismounted security patrol came under small arms fire from insurgents in the Panjwayi District.

Captain Richard Leary,

3 June 08

0930
Captain Richard Steven Leary was killed on June 3, 2008 when he came under direct enemy fire during a patrol in the Panjwayi district. The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. Kandahar time. Capt Leary was a member of the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, based out of Shilo, Manitoba.

~Le Capitaine Richard (Steve) Leary est décédé le 3 juin 2008 lorsqu’une patrouille à pied à laquelle il participait a essuyé des tirs ennemis directs dans le district de Panjwayi. L’incident est survenu vers 9 h 30, heure de Kandahar. Le Capt Leary était un membre du 2nd Bataillon, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry basé à Shilo, au Manitoba.

Taliban militants killed a Canadian platoon commander in Afghanistan today (Tuesday, June 3, 2008) as he tried to guide his soldiers to safety, in an area of farmland west of Kandahar. Capt. Richard (Steve) Leary, 32, was leading Canadian and Afghan troops in a foot patrol in the Panjwaii district of Kandahar province when they were ambushed by small arms fire shortly after 9 a.m. local time. The soldiers returned fire, then repositioned under Leary's leadership in what became a half-hour-long battle. Close air support was called in and the insurgents were pushed back. Leary was struck at about 9:30 a.m., said Colonel Jamie Cade during a news conference. No other soldiers were hurt in the gunfire. "Captain Leary was what we in uniform are expected to be. Captain Leary was a soldier and Captain Leary was a leader," Cade said. "In his memory and the memory of those that have gone before him we remain steadfast in our resolve to bring peace and stability to the people of Afghanistan. He will be greatly missed by his military family." Leary was a platoon commander with 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based out of Shilo, Man. Originally from Brantford, Ont., he was on his first overseas mission. He leaves behind his wife Rachel, his parents Richard and Gail and his sister Brandi. His repatriation ceremony is tentatively scheduled for June 6. After being shot, Leary was airlifted to the medical facility at Kandahar Airfield where he was pronounced dead by a medical officer. "Every death is deeply painful to us, but it is a risk that we as members of the Canadian Armed Forces understand and assume as we work to bring peace and stability to a country that has been torn apart by war," Cade said. Senior army spokesman Maj. Jay Janzen said Leary's men are taking the loss with much difficulty. "When you lose a leader as effective as Capt. Leary, as personable, it is difficult, but we're just thinking about (his) family right now,'' he said. Defence Minister Peter MacKay, the Governor General, the prime minister and the opposition party leaders have all extended their condolences to Leary's family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Capt Leary's family and friends both in Canada and in Afghanistan during this very difficult time. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Capt. Leary. In his memory, and in memory of those who have gone before, we will increase our support and resolve to bring peace and stability to the people of Afghanistan.

"Capt. Steve Leary (my cousin) was an amazing man. He truly was a hero. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Nobody should have to die this young but he died fighting for what he believed in. Peace." ~Chelsea Embry

If you wish to view or sign the guest book in Capt Leary's memory, please click here.

Soldier's Widow Says He was Her Best Friend Thursday, June 5, 2008
They were together for more than half their lives, having been a couple since high school, and were best friends.
Rachel Leary described him as a brave and dedicated man.
"He believed in what he was doing, and he was dedicated to all his guys," Leary said through tears, reading from a prepared statement at Canadian Forces Base Shilo.
For nearly two years, the couple had called Shilo home. Richard Leary was often called "Rich" by his colleagues on the base, a military spokeswoman said.
Whenever her husband was away, Leary said she always knew how much he cared.
"No matter where he was, whether he was training or ... I never doubted how much he loved or missed me," said Leary, 29.
"He was my very best friend, and a wonderful husband."
The Learys, who met in their hometown of Brantford, Ont., have been together since he was 16 and she was 14, Richard's aunt, Terry Careswell, told the Brantford Expositor on Tuesday.
They were to celebrate their sixth wedding anniversary in August, said Lori Truscott, a military spokeswoman based at Shilo.
As Leary read her statement, she was surrounded by soldiers and flanked by Wanda Watkins, the mother of Pte. Lane Watkins, a Manitoba soldier who was killed last summer in Afghanistan.
"I want every Canadian out there to know that every soldier has someone behind them who loves them and supports them and sacrifices for them," said Leary, her voice shaking.
Asking for privacy to deal with her grief and emotions, Leary did not take reporters' questions.
Richard Leary is also survived by his parents Richard and Gail, and his sister Brandi.
In Afghanistan, thousands of NATO soldiers attended a ramp ceremony Wednesday that marked Leary's final journey home.
A military ceremony is planned for Friday at CFB Trenton in Ontario.


Thursday, June 04, 2008- Military Family Says Goodbye
" ... Be gentle as we walk our brother home ..." Capt. Darren Persaud, battle group chaplain.
Master Cpl. Lizette Leblanc and Cpl. Jessie Veltri carry the casket of Capt. Richard (Steve) Leary at Kandahar Airfield on Wednesday, June 4, 2008. Photo Credit: CP

It is the slow march back to Canada. Or at least as far as a lost soldier's uniformed compatriots can take him – into the belly of a Hercules aircraft."Task Force Afghanistan: To your fallen comrade salute!" the base commander bellowed.And thousands snapped to attentionFive long columns of troops – from Canada, the United States, Holland, France, Romania, Australia, Denmark and Britain – bade a solemn farewell last night to Capt. Richard "Stevo" Leary, killed in a firefight in Panjwaii district Tuesday morning.The ramp ceremonies are always poignant, humbling and quietly overwhelming. There is such unnatural stillness in the tableau.With the soldiers assembled, marching in precision form to their places, the LAV hearse appeared on the edge of the Kandahar Airfield, flag-draped coffin protruding from the rear.The sun, just starting to set, cast slanting rays across the tarmac, silhouetting the turret gunner atop the vehicle.Gently, the casket was removed and placed on the shoulders of eight pallbearers, seven men and one female, arms clasped to brace the weight of their burden.In the front, Pte. Jessie Veltri struggled to contain his sobs but tears mixed with sweat as the bearer party approached the plane. At the back, Master Cpl. Jaison Levanen carried Leary's beret and badge and, behind him, Capt. Ludger Hacault piped a lament.The dead platoon commander's men, most of them, were still out in the area of operations, unable to attend the ceremony, though saluting their captain privately in their combat post last night."Rich Leary – Steve as he was known to his family – was a very stoic individual, very solid leader, extremely loyal and renowned for his loyalty to his troops," Lt.-Col. Dave Corbould told reporters afterward.It was always the mission and his men. They were always first, well before his own personal thoughts. He was a real inspiration to his troops."Leary died of gunshot wounds when his platoon – on a joint patrol mission with Afghan forces – was ambushed by insurgents, in a chronically restive region west of the main base.Leary, Second Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, graduated from officer training just two years ago but was apparently eager to serve in Afghanistan.He was at least the second officer struck down this past week – another, in a separate incident on Monday, was severely wounded by a roadside explosion during a dismounted patrol, and was flown to an American military hospital in Germany for further medical treatment.All this means abrupt adjustments at the platoon command level and younger officers promoted to lead."They're handling it well, as could be expected," said Corbould of Leary's troops. "As Capt. Leary was loyal to his men, they're loyal to his memory. And they're getting on with the mission."Capt. Darren Persaud, the battle group chaplain, gave a short but very moving eulogy for the fallen soldier."We stand at attention to honour the ultimate sacrifice of a son, husband and dear friend. His wish to serve his country by leading his troops into combat was one of his greatest desires. When he was informed that he was coming to Afghanistan, he could not have been happier."He loved his wife, he loved his work, and he loved his troops. His zeal for life was paralleled only by his fiery sense of humour, and a passion to lead. He was a soldier's leader and a great friend."In the eloquent prayer Persaud delivered afterwards, he spoke tenderly of "unfinished conversations", long nights to come full of questions, pain, longing, anger, confusion."Let us not despair," he counselled.Persaud ended with these words:"Capt. Leary, it is for you I eternally pray, dear brother. Rest in peace."

REPATRIATION CEREMONY- He's Coming Home

Our fallen soldier, Captain Richard (Steve) Leary, a member of the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Shilo, Manitoba, is scheduled to return home to Canada tomorrow.

Where: 8 Wing Trenton, Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ontario.
When: Friday, June 6, 2008, 2 p.m.

Present to pay their respects will be the Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and other dignitaries.

Honour our fallen soldier and his family- wear your red, bring your flag... gather along the 401 and overpasses between Trenton and Toronto (our Highway of Heroes). He is coming home.

Repatriation Ceremony - CFB Trenton - Friday, June 6, 2008

The casket of Captain Richard Leary is loaded into a waiting hearse during his repatriation ceremony at CFB Trenton, in Trenton, Ont. on Friday June 6,

Captain Richard Leary's family members walk to a hearse carrying him at at Canadian Forces Base in Trenton. Photo credit: Fred Thornhill

A repatriation ceremony was held Friday afternoon to mark the return of the most recent Canadian soldier to die in Afghanistan.
The plane carrying the body of Capt. Richard Steve Leary touched down at Canadian Forces Base Trenton - about 220 kilometres southwest of Ottawa - at 2 p.m., under a hazy sky and was greeted by family and other mourners.
Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier and his successor, Lt-Gen. Walter Natynczyk, who was named to the top job earlier in the day, attended the ceremony.
"It certainly seems supportive of the family and overall, the Canadian Forces, to have them both here on the tarmac," said Capt. Nicole Meszaros, public affairs officer at CFB Trenton.
Defence Minister Peter MacKay also attended the ceremony.
Leary's family approached his flag-draped coffin once it was loaded off the plane into a waiting hearse and had an "emotional" few moments, said Meszaros.
Members of the public were there to show their support and watched from outside the fence around the base.
"There were many, many flags at the fenceline," said Meszaros. She also expected supporters to be lining the stretch of Highway 401 to Toronto, dubbed the Highway of Heroes, where Leary's body was to be taken.
"I know that Canadians were coming out along the 401 to pay respect to the family," she added.
In the wake of his death, the 32 year old was praised as an effective and dedicated leader and earlier this week his wife, and high school sweetheart, Rachel told the media that Leary was "my very best friend and a wonderful husband." The pair grew up in Brantford, Ont.

Journey Along the Highway of Heroes

Maureen Campeau stood in the afternoon heat on an overpass near Brighton, Ont., with only a camouflage-coloured hat decorated in military pins and other paraphernalia to shelter her from the oppressive sun.
But her mind wasn't on the weather.
She was one of dozens of people waiting for the body of Capt. Richard (Steve) Leary to pass beneath. Leary was killed Tuesday during a firefight with Taliban militants in Afghanistan, and his body had been repatriated to Canadian soil only minutes ago at Canadian Forces Base Trenton, just down the road.
Campeau and the others, many dressed in red and clutching Canadian flags, were there to show support for Leary's family as they accompanied his body down Highway 401 - dubbed the Highway of Heroes for the 83 soldiers' bodies that made the journey previously - to Toronto, where it will be examined by a coroner.
Campeau, who is from Brighton, has three brothers-in-law in the Armed Forces, and she said she was "ashamed" this was only the second time she stood on the overpass to show her support.
"It's the only way you can say thank you," she said, her eyes filling with tears.
"When you lose someone close to you, it's nice to know that other people are there to support you. I will be here from now on. Hopefully there won't be another, but if there is, I will be here."
The hearse's arrival was heralded by a single black police car, its siren wailing. The overpass fell silent as people waved their flags or simply stood and stared, some with hands over their mouths.
Afterwards, Cindy Clitherow picked up her baby and took her four-year-old daughter by the hand. It was the first time she had come out to stand on the overpass.
"It's interesting to explain this to a four-year-old, but she understands what she can, and I think it's important that she's here," Clitherow said.
At CFB Trenton, several other supporters lined up outside the air base where the plane delivering Leary's body landed.
Jim Dixon of Belleville, Ont., has only missed four repatriation ceremonies out of the 84 that have been held, and he plans to keep on coming.
He doesn't have any family members in the military, but he believes it's important show support just the same.
"It means a lot to the family to see such a large turnout," Dixon said.
Colin Stillwell, a retired serviceman who spent 28 years in the Canadian Forces, said he's missed "less than six" repatriation ceremonies.
"It's paying respects to a fallen comrade, and it's also to show support to the family that the loss was not in vain and that we do appreciate the sacrifice that the soldier made," Stillwell said. The near 30C temperatures took a toll on military officers who surrounded the plane to salute Leary's return. One nearly collapsed and needed to be taken away in a wheelchair.
Meanwhile, members of Leary's family watched from a shaded area underneath a tent, several of them clutching red flowers.
After the casket was placed in the hearse, about six family members were ushered to the vehicle, where they embraced for several minutes.
The hearse then left for Leary's hometown of Brantford, where the family is expected to hold a private funeral service

Statement by the Minister of National Defence : The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:

"Today we are united in our grief for Captain Richard (Steve) Leary who died in the line of duty in Afghanistan. To his family, friends and loved ones, we extend our deepest sympathies.Captain Leary and his fellow soldiers are affecting positive change in support of the United Nation-mandated, NATO-led mission in Afghanistan. Their bravery and sacrifice allows the Afghan people to rebuild their country after decades of turmoil. I join with Canadians, in respect and admiration, for the men and women in uniform who protect Canadians and promote the Canadian values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law."

Statement by Prime Minister Harper
"On behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians, I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Captain Richard (Steve) Leary who died today in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. “Captain Leary was killed while engaged with insurgents during a joint security patrol in the Panjwayi District. He was making a difference, working alongside his fellow soldiers, to rebuild a war torn country. “The Afghan people have a right to freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. These are the values that we hold dear in Canada and these are values that our brave Canadian Forces’ members are working to promote in Afghanistan.“We honour Captain Leary’s sacrifice. His efforts will not be forgotten.”

125th Anniversaryof Dragoons and RCR

The public is invited to attend:

The 125th Anniversary Parade

of

the Royal Canadian Dragoons

and

Royal Canadian Regiment

on

Saturday, June 7th, 2008

at

9:00 a.m.

on

Parliament Hill

Ottawa

The parade will consist of two ceremonial guards of one hundred soldiers each. They will be parading in full ceremonial scarlet uniforms in front of the Parliament Buildings to recognize the 125 years of service to Canada during both peace and war.

Also parading on the Hill will be a Gun Troop from 2nd Regiment, the Royal Canadian Horse Artillery firing gun salutes with their 105mm cannons.

Music will be provided by:

the Canadian Forces Ceremonial Guard Band and

the 2nd Battalion Royal Canadian Regiment Pipes and Drums.
Featured before and during the parade will be a series of static displays, showcasing the vehicles and equipment used by both Regiments throughout their history. The parade will conclude around mid-day with a march-past of the Regiments, and a roll-past of the vehicles as they move east along Wellington Street and continue past the National War Memorial and conclude at the Cartier Square Drill Hall for a post-parade reception.

Congratulations Dragoons and RCR!

Enduring the Heat

Think of our troops currently serving overseas today as the temperatures have climbed to a balmy 44 degrees celcius today. (and remember all the equipment they carry and the uniform they wear- some sitting in a cozy warm vehicle.)

Bless our troops for all they do and endure.

Toronto Blue Jays Honour our Troops

MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY

Saturday, June 7, 2008

BALTIMORE ORIOLES vs. TORONTO BLUE JAYS

Rogers Centre, Toronto, ON

1:07 PM

Join the Toronto Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre as they honour the Canadian Military with the 4th Annual Canadian Forces Day.
Let your Canadian Forces members know you appreciate their service and keep up their morale by attending this game. Tickets are located in the Field Level Bases, and are discounted to $40, with proceeds of each ticket being returned to the Military Family Resource Centre. To purchase discounted tickets and secure great seats for the game, please do not forget to input the promo code GP-MIA08. To purchase tickets online, click here. To purchase groups of 10+ or for more information, please call Paul Rabeau at 416-341-1670 or by e-mail paul.rabeau@bluejays.com

A BIG HUA to our Blue Jays!!

And don't forget to wear your red!

On behalf of military families: Thanks Jennifer for the heads up!

It's Friday...

Are YOU wearing red today?

Support Our Troops - Wear Red on Fridays.

PEI Employers to Declare Support to Canada's Reserve Forces

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND- Nine organizations, including six local businesses, will declare their support to Canada's Reserve Forces on Friday, May 23, 2008. The Honourable Barbara A. Hagerman, Lieutenant Governor of Prince Edward Island, will preside over the ceremony where the organizations will sign "Declarations of Support". Organized by the Canadian Forces Liaison Council (CFLC), the ceremony will also be attended by Mr. John Craig Eaton the National Chairman of CFLC, who will be presenting certificates of appreciation to the supportive organizations. Maj.-Gen. Dennis Tabbernor, Chief Reserves and Cadets; Mr. Robert Bateman, CFLC PEI Provincial Chair, and the Honorable Robert W.J. Ghiz, Premier of PEI will also be in attendance to show their support to PEI reservists.

Where: Her Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) QUEEN CHARLOTTE
210 Water Street Parkway
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
When: Friday, May 23, 2008 at 3:00 p.m.
(Media are asked to arrive between 2:30 and 2:45 p.m. and present
themselves to the staff inside the main entrance.)
What: Signing ceremony recognizing Prince Edward Island's commitment
to Canada's Reserve Forces.
Who: Organizations signing a Declaration of Support include:
- City of Charlottetown
- City of Summerside
- The Guardian
- CIBC
- FEDEX
- CGI Group Inc.
- Charlottetown Airport Authority Inc.
- Sameday Right-O-Way
- Province of Prince Edward Island

A big HUA to the Prince Edward Island businesses!! Way to go!!!

Now that's support!

Where Is the Military Display? Military Mom on a Mission- On a Quest to Find Them.

Juno Bear? Where are you?
I had the chance this weekend to seek out the displays at the Memorial Auditorium in Kitchener.
My goal was to seek out the military exhibit. Understanding that it was part of the Toyota's Fanfest, I ventured downstairs to the Arena. On the tableaux was the agenda of the day - yes, the military exhibit was on the agenda along with the times 10 am - 7 pm.
Looking around I found many phenominal displays created by local primary students of the Kitchener-Waterloo region.
Continuing in my quest, I met the sculptor of the Canadian Veterans' Memorial - Timothy P. Schmalz. We had an opportunity to speak for a minute or two before he needed to return to his work.
Next to his new sculpture are a couple of motor homes on display - for sale - the cost for one of them was $288,000 by the way. (why may I ask does this have to do with the Memorial Cup? perhaps they were preparing ahead for the Sportsman Show? - not sure).
Across the arena, I spied a Veterans' booth! I must be getting warmer! There were a couple of ladies busily handing out pins and brochures. There were very helpful to my quest. To get to the military display, you needed to go outside, around the building to the otherside and down the lot a stretch. Well, I was off.
Battling cold winds, I went outside, got into my car, drove around the building to the otherside, only to be flagged down by a parking attendant asking me if my purpose was to drop someone off, if not, I was not welcome to venture up that area. I explained what my intentions were - to see the military display- that was a part of the Memorial Cup displays. I was then instructed to drive off the grounds and onto the road ajacent and perhaps there may be parking there (noting that there would be small hike involved)
The road was already full. I thought perhaps I may be able to turn onto the road that the armoury was on, (East Ave) however that road... get this... was closed! A little frustrated yet determined, I drove a few blocks away, parked the car and hiked up... my quest was almost finished. I saw the armoury ahead, and the display? It was in a field adjacent to the auditorium.. outside! There were a couple of tables (same as INSIDE the auditorium) that held information about the mission in Afghanistan, as well as lanyards, keychains, note pads, etc.

Who decided on this location?
There should have been more people/visitors to the display.
The display should have been highly accessible (both for parking and people) and visible.
The display should have been indoors - rather than the 2 motorhomes occupying space.
Why was it put outside in an empty field outside of the auditorium?

After all, the Military is very significant to the Memorial Cup. The Memorial Cup 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. And this is the way our military is treated?
Put them in a field with only the blowing winds able to access them?
Our military should have a greater presence in the arenas and Auditorium than what was displayed. Our soldiers were put out of sight and in an inaccessible area. I will remember this when I look at the poppy on the logos advertising the cup.

So, if you are interested in visiting with our soldiers, let me help you out.
Drive onto East Ave (where it says Road Closed) and park in front of the Armoury - that is if there are any spots left. The display is in between the armoury and the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.
If there are no parking spots left, then parking may be available on Stirling (going away from the Aud)

View Larger Map
Oh! The soldiers I met were very informative ; especially Richards who with vast knowledge took the time and presented each vehicle to me. Thank you Richards.

Military Band and Fireworks Display

PLEASE NOTE:

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.

That's the Military Band and Fireworks Display will be on Saturday May 24th, 2008

at

Kitchener's Centennial Stadium

(adjacent to the Auditorium)

400 East Avenue, Kitchener

at 9:00 pm

Free Admission

4th Annual Yellow Ribbon Ride - CFB Borden

Yellow Ribbon Ride

For the Deployed Troops and the Families Back Home

Sunday, June 8th, 2008

Starting at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden.

(Once you arrive at the Base, simply follow the signs to the registration point.)

Registration & BBQ will be from 11:00 to 12:30.

Cost for the event : $20.00 per Rider & $5.00 per Passenger.
As in past years, all monies from the ride will go directly to the Yellow Ribbon Fund, and profits from the BBQ will go to the Military Police Blind Children's Fund.

Registration Forms: Rider or Co-Rider

Directions to CFB Borden:
Coming from the North
On hwy 400 South in Barrie take exit 96 towards ANGUS
Turn left on Dunlop (Hwy 90) and continue to Angus
In Angus take Mill Street to the front gate of CFB Borden
Once at the gate follow the signs to the event
Coming from the South
On hwy 400 North take exit 75 Hwy 89/Simcoe Rd 89 towards Cookstown
Continue on 89 to Aliston
Turn right onto King Street North (at the Dairy Queen)
Continue on King St North it turns into CR 15
Follow CR 15 to the gate on CFB Borden
Once at the gate follow the signs to the event
Or
Hwy 400 North in Barrie exit 96B towards Angus
Continue on Dunlop (hwy 90) to Angus
In Angus take Mill Street to the front gate of CFB Borden
Once at the gate follow the signs to the event

Canadian Soldiers Wounded by Child Afghan Suicide Bomber

Unidentified Canadian soldier on patrol.

The suicide bomber who killed an Afghan soldier and wounded two Canadian soldiers Friday was a young boy. A second Afghan soldier was also injured in the attack.
The incident occurred while the soldiers were conducting a foot patrol in a village in Zhari district, just west of Kandahar City, around 10 a.m. local time.
Military sources said the boy was around 10 years old.
The sources said the bomb was possibly detonated from a distance by remote control.
The soldiers saw the child approaching. There was some suggestion that he had his arms in the air giving reason for them suspecting that it may have been detonated by someone else.
All proper procedures were followed by the soldiers.
The injured soldiers were all brought back to Kandahar Airfield for treatment.
Capt. Amber Bineau, a spokeswoman for the Canadian army battle group in Kandahar, said the two Canadians were able to "walk into the medical facility on their own."
The military does not usually release the names of injured Canadians.
Foot patrols
Canadians seem to be going back to foot patrols, demonstrating they are on the ground and in the community. But they are typically acting in a support role to the Afghan National Army soldiers, who are taking more of a leadership role in southern Afghanistan.

Bikers Everywhere Supporting our Troops

The "Bikers Everywhere Supporting our Troops" Ride in Canada

In Support of all soldiers: past, present and future.

All proceeds go directly to The Sapper Mike McTeague Wounded Warriors Fund

on

Sunday, July 13th, 2008

Start: Hespeler Legion at 26 Schofield Street Hespeler (Cambridge), ON
Registration Fees: Riders - $20.00 Passengers - $10.00

2008 Schedule of Events:

09:00 - Registration Opens

10:30 - Pre-ride safety talk

11:00 - First riders depart

14:00 - First riders begin to return, barbecue starts, cash bar opens

15:00 - Live entertainment begins

17:00 - Last riders return, closing ceremonies

18:00 - Event ends

Pledge forms can be downloaded from HERE

Last year, $2,000.00 in donations was passed to the Wounded Warriors Fund!

If you would like to pre-register, click here.

Kitchener Rangers to Auction Off Jerseys - Proceeds to the Poppy Fund

On Thursday, the Kitchener Rangers unveiled the special jerseys that they will wear in the opening game against Gatineau on Friday. The jerseys* were designed to commemorate the historical significance of the military to the tournament. They will wear them once and then auction them off at CHL on EBAY with the proceeds going to the Poppy Fund.

Poppy funds are used to support veterans and their families, buy hospital equipment, support cadet groups, and provide student bursaries. The auction closes May 26-08 19:01:15 EDT.
*In conjunction with the jerseys, the players helmets will be auctioned off as well separately.

A BIG HUA to the Kitchener Rangers !!

and all the Best in the Play offs!

Canadian Forces Military Display

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.

Canadian Military to Escort the Memorial Cup

On Thursday morning, the Memorial Cup leaving Victoria Park in Kitchener at 11:30 a.m. along a route to Kitchener's City Hall on King Street. The cup will be escorted by our soldiers on parade. Come out and support the troops during the parade. Welcome the Memorial Cup to Kitchener, ON for the CHL Playoffs.

For further information on the Memorial Cup events and Games, click on the link below:
http://www.mastercardmemorialcup.com/index.php

Bless Cpl Michael Starker and His Family

Thursday, May 10, 2008 Corporal Michael Starker 15 Field Ambulance
Canadian Soldier Killed and Another Injured in Afghanistan
Corporal Michael Starker, of 15 Field Ambulance, was killed today and another soldier was injured when they came under enemy fire during a patrol in the Pashmul region of the Zharey district. The soldiers were immediately evacuated by helicopter to the Canadian-led multinational hospital at Kandahar Airfield, where one soldier was pronounced dead. The other soldier is in fair condition and stable. The incident occurred at about 11:45 a.m. Kandahar time. The families of both members have been notified.At the time of the incident, the soldiers, their colleagues and Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) were conducting a civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) patrol in the area. These patrols are part of the many ways ANSF and ISAF show their presence, interact with the local population and discuss development needs of the community.

National Defence: "This incident will not deter us from continuing our work with the Government and the people of Afghanistan. Incidents like this one prove that, along with our Afghan National Security Force partners, Canadians need to continue working to bring about peace and security in the region.These are difficult times for the families, friends and colleagues of the soldier who died in this incident. Our hearts go out to them at this time and the Canadian Forces will do it's utmost to help the next of kin of this brave Canadian."

He's Coming Home.

Statement by the Minister of National Defence

The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:"We grieve the loss of Corporal Michael Starker who died today in Afghanistan. We also hope for the prompt recovery of the soldier who was injured in the same incident and extend our sympathies to the families and friends of these brave soldiers.The soldiers were conducting a patrol with a joint civilian-military team which helps address the development needs of local Afghan communities when they were engaged by insurgents.I join with Canadians who stand proudly with our men and women of the Canadian Forces as they courageously risk their lives every day to bring peace and security to the people of Afghanistan. The sacrifices of these soldiers will not be forgotten and this event will not deter us from continuing to help Afghans rebuild their country."

He's Coming Home -Our fallen soldier, Corporal Michael Gunter Starker, a member of 15 Field Ambulance, based in Edmonton, is scheduled to return home to Canada Friday, May 9, 2008. Corporal Starker was a reservist from Calgary, Alberta.
Where: 8 Wing Trenton, Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ontario.
When: Friday, May 9, 2008, 2:00 p.m.
Present to pay their respects will be the Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, and other dignitaries.

She's Not Alone - We Stand Beside Her - She stands straight, her head held high, one hand clutching a single, perfect rose. Dark sunglasses don't shield her eyes, a courageous gesture for someone who knows millions are watching her.
The only giveaway to Nicole Starker's unfathomable grief is her lower lip that quivers with such ferocity at times it appears as though she is murmuring to herself.
Other than this one involuntary physical response, the pretty woman widowed far too young gives an exemplary lesson in grace under unimaginable pressure.
She shows the strength of character her friends cite as one of her many positive qualities.
It must seem all too surreal on Friday, then, as she stands under a makeshift white tent, positioned at the front of a group of her and her husband's family, watching a military plane unload a flag-draped casket containing the body of Cpl. Michael Starker.
On Tuesday morning, Nicole, a publicist for E! Network National, was walking into her office at the Global TV offices in Calgary. One of her colleagues yelled out, "Have a great day, Nicole!" and she responded in kind.
She was excitedly marking down the days until she'd meet her husband Michael in Africa, the dream-of-a-lifetime trip to celebrate his upcoming leave from duty in Afghanistan.
Less than an hour later, Nicole would be escorted into the office of a colleague who was away on a business trip. The door would close, and she would get the devastating news from a military team that included a chaplain, that her paramedic-reservist husband was killed that day while on a community outreach mission.
Barely 72 hours later, she and Michael's closest loved ones are in Trenton, Ont., a community two hours east of Toronto, where the biggest employers are Quaker Oats, Nestle and Canadian Forces Base Trenton.
At noon Calgary time, the heartbreaking ritual known in military-speak as the "repatriation ceremony" for Michael's body begins.
It's a hectic scene in the newsroom, as people working on the noon show rush back and forth, and one TV monitor shows live footage of firefighters rescuing stranded workers from the top of Bankers Hall (yet another reminder of everyday heroics).
Still, it's easy to blot out all distractions thanks to the moving events unfolding live from Trenton. White-haired veterans with chests full of medals; middle-aged couples dressed head-to-toe in red and waving large Canadian flags; and moms with their tots all mingle on the other side of the flag-dotted barbed-wire fence that overlooks the drama.
Inside, a procession of military personnel wearing a wide variety of uniforms files into position as a lone bagpiper plays. Nicole stands alone, her relatives a few steps behind her, the women each holding a single rose.
A woman dressed in black steps forward and escorts Nicole to the back of the black hearse in which the casket has been gently set by the eight young, uniformed, white-gloved pallbearers. She says her goodbyes, places the rose on the casket, then turns away to weep as a man puts his right arm around her shoulder.
A chaplain gives her a hug, and she shows her courage once again, offering him a warm smile.
If there is any comfort at all to be had in a time of such great sorrow, it is that others, near and far, are feeling the loss on this day.
While I watch the live feed of the ceremony in the Global newsroom, Nicole's colleagues are viewing it on another television downstairs. Afterwards, one colleague, who had earlier agreed to make a few comments, is too overwhelmed. "It's too tough, too raw right now," he says, acknowledging that the mood among her closest work friends is one of deep sadness.
At City Hall, paramedic Brent Thorkelson stands guard beside a condolence book that is already close to full.
Thorkelson, a friend of fellow paramedic Michael Starker, lets me thumb through the book, which has page upon page of expressions from the heart: "This is a great loss to the city"; "thank you for your love of your country and your love for all mankind"; "too young and too soon."
One note jumps out from the rest: "As I said goodbye to my children this morning, I said 'Thank you, Michael,' for letting them grow up in a safer world."
It is at once a very private and public grief. While those who knew and loved Michael Starker are feeling it most, there are thousands willing to help shoulder at least some of the burden for the loss of a true hero. Valerie Fortney, The Ottawa Citizen

Onlookers pay tribute to fallen Calgary soldier Cpl. Michael Starker as the hearse carrying his body leaves CFB Trenton Friday.Onlookers pay tribute to fallen Calgary soldier Cpl. Michael Starker as the hearse carrying his body leaves CFB Trenton Friday.

Cpl. Starker was also a paramedic for the city of Calgary. Durham EMS was just one of many ambulance services to travel to Trenton on Friday to pay respects to one of their own.

Funeral of Cpl Starker - Friday, May 15th

Nicole Starker, wife of Corporal Michael Starker, a medic who was killed in Afghanistan on May 6, attends his funeral in Calgary on Friday, May 15, 2008 Photo Credit: Canadian Press

Thousands of people turned out Friday to say farewell to a paramedic and reservist killed in Afghanistan with a service that mirrored his life -- quiet and dignified.
His wife, Nicole Starker, and sister Carolyn Straub had joked with reporters earlier in the week that Cpl. Michael Starker would be embarrassed by all of the attention his death had generated.
"I think he would be laughing his a@# off right now saying, `I don't know why you guys are making such a big deal of this,' '' chuckled Straub.
"He'd be uncomfortable,'' Nicole Starker agreed. "But on the other hand, had this been one of his buddies instead of him he would have said they absolutely deserve it, every bit of attention they're getting.''
Hundreds of uniformed friends and colleagues from EMS, the Canadian Forces and police departments across Alberta turned out at the Calgary Roundup Centre to make sure Starker received the attention he deserved.
There were no eulogies in the 90-minute Catholic service, as the family decided to read the eulogies at a private service Thursday evening.
Pictures of Starker, both as a member of the Canadian Forces and as a paramedic, were placed in the hallway leading into the salon, which had a seating capacity of 3,000.
The entire event was simple -- there was no table of favourite photos or trophies. A screen at the front by the altar flipped through front page stories on his death from local newspapers.
Starker, 36, was a reservist medic with Edmonton's 15th Field Ambulance unit and a former member of the Canadian Airborne Regiment.
He was killed May 6 during an ambush west of Kandahar City in Afghanistan, becoming the 83rd soldier and 84th Canadian killed there since 2002.
Members of the 15th Field Ambulance acted as pallbearers, their heads held high and eyes straight ahead, carrying his coffin draped with the Canadian flag into the service. An insignia bearer carried Starker's headgear.
"Michael was a good guy,'' said Father Robert Rocheleau, Nicole Starker's cousin, who delivered the homily. "He was a person of love. He would want us to recognize that the things that he did was because of his desire, because of the gifts that God had shared with him.
"We can only imagine how many people's lives Michael has touched. Reaching out for them, caring for him. Each day he shared the gift of life.''
Rocheleau said he was fortunate to attend the wedding of Michael and Nicole back in 1997. He remembered when Nicole first brought him home to meet the family in Windsor, Ont., on Boxing Day.
"He was shy, he was afraid, he was uncertain and rightly so because we weren't going to let him take our Nicole without making sure he was the right guy,'' Rocheleau said with a smile. "He spent the entire day with us experiencing a lot of teasing, a lot of jokes at his expense and the third degree and he took it all in quite well. The next time he came, Michael was glad there was a new boyfriend with another cousin on the scene.''
Rocheleau said Starker spent his life working to help others and acknowledged he was not one to look for the spotlight.
"He was always wanting to be a better person. Michael enjoyed his family, his friends, his work, his colleagues. He enjoyed the opportunity to share and make our world a better place. I don't think Michael would enjoy such celebrity.
"We must also remember all of Michael's colleagues in Afghanistan today who grieve with us. We offer them our support as they continue to do the work that has been entrusted to them.''

Task Force 3-08 Battle Group Prepares for One Final Training Milestone Before Afghanistan

ONE ARMY*ONE TEAM*ONE VISION

This week, soldiers from the Task Force 3-08 Battle Group left Canadian Forces Base Petawawa and other locations across Canada and travel to Wainwright, Alberta, to take part in Exercise Maple Guardian 0801.
What does the Canadian Manoeuvre Training Centre (CMTC) in Wainwright have to offer that makes this place the final major collective training milestone before the Battle Group is ready to deploy to Afghanistan?
“CMTC can provide a level of realism that is not achievable anywhere else in Canada,” said Lieutenant Colonel Roger Barrett, Commanding Officer of Task Force 3-08 Battle Group. “Incorporating actors, role players and an extremely advanced Weapons Effects Simulation system, will allow us to test our ability to operate in a very complex, dynamic and sometimes chaotic environment.”
Perhaps its poetic justice, revenge or just payback for spending the month of February in the desert of New Mexico, many of the soldiers arrived in the training area to be greeted by fresh snow.
“Be it snow or sand it’s just another obstacle that we have to be prepared to overcome,” added Lieutenant Colonel Barrett. “Being able to adapt is just one of the reasons why Canadian Forces members are among the best trained and most experienced soldiers in the world. Exercise Maple Guardian will be a key part of our preparation.”
The exercise will go on until the middle of May, at which time, Task Force 3-08 Battle group will have completed all their collective training and be ready to take on the difficult tasks in Afghanistan.

Prepared and Ready!

Here to Hold Your Hand

Sorry that I haven't posted for a while. I believe I was going through a panic/reality attack (??) during the past month as the "countdown" is on for my son's deployment.

I believe that my last trip to the base, had made me realize "the date"is nearing and I found I was turning inward and tuning everything else out. I then realized that I'm not the only person going through this and this had been the purpose of my blog - helping others who are preparing and waiting. So get ready, as I'm going to try and catch everyone up in the next week.

Note to my son: I miss you very much and hope you're keeping well. I loved the last letter you sent. Keep studying. You're amazing. Love always, Mom ox