Canadian Heroes

I'll Go

2011-12-31T13:08:00.000-08:00

Although the following is performed by an American, for American servicemen and women; the message is perfect in conveying the attitude of our own Canadian Heroes:

Master Cpl. Byron Greff

2011-12-29T08:14:00.000-08:00

In the closing days of any armed conflict, there are always those who perish at the very end; just when most of their comrades have safely returned and the country has moved on.

For their families, it's an especially sad and bitter time.

Master Cpl. Byron Greff

Bombardier Karl Manning; Master Cpl. Francis Roy

2011-07-03T14:18:00.000-07:00

Soldier's Eyes:

To look into a soldier's eyes, the window to their soul.

Look out from inside their mind and see horrors never told.

You say we are just killers, it's not that plain you see.

Take a walk inside my boots and see what I have seen.

Many innocent lives taken and soldiers, they were some.

Giving their life freely to get the mission done.

The last cold stare of death, we see in our buddies eyes.

They fought for all your freedom, this is why we die.

Some wonder why we fight to protect this nation and maybe lose our life.

Ask this question to a soldier, the answer is in their eyes.

Always will we be here waiting, the call we won't deny.

We'll always fight for freedom, never asking why.

We'll go away to far off lands , leaving our loved ones behind.

Many times we die alone, several times inside.

Open windows to our soul, see the tears we hide.

Secrets that we cannot keep are in a soldier's eyes.

By: SSG M.Lynn McCulley

Bombardier Karl Manning

Master Cpl. Francis Roy

Thank You.

Corporal Yannick Scherrer

2011-04-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

The Canadian media has all but forgotten the Afghanistan War, what with Canada winding down its combat mission and moving to the safer task of training Afghan soldiers, the eyes of the media and most Canadians are elsewhere.

But, Canadian soldiers still toil in Afghanistan and they still fight and their families still live through the fear and waiting, just as they did at the start.

It is therefore, particularly trying for those families who lose loved ones in the final days of our combat mission. With the nation focused elsewhere, they may feel particularly isolated.

Corporal Yannick Scherrer entered the conflict knowing full well that Canada's roll is in the final stages; that those lost now will be among the last to fall in Afghanistan. It mattered not though, for just as those who went before, Corporal Yannick Scherrer was a volunteer for dangerous and grueling duty; a Canadian warrior.

We extend our sympathy to his family and promise that we will not forget. We will remember him with gratitude ... gratitude that he was among those strong and capable men and women who are willing to stand between us and barbarism. They follow a long line of Canadian warriors who have kept the ugliness of an often savage world far away from our shores.

Thank You Corporal Yannick Scherrer.

Corporal Steve Martin

2010-12-27T09:56:00.000-08:00

It's very difficult expressing adequately the gratitude and humility one feels when soldiers lose their lives around Christmas.

While most of us enjoy the warmth and cheer of the season, it's incredibly sobering to consider the sorrow that has come to Corporal Steve Martin's family at this time. There Christmases will be forever marred.

Our logo is:

WHO IS A HERO, BUT A MAN OR WOMAN WHO CONSIDERED THE ISSUES OF WAR AND POSSIBLE DEATH, AND WHO ENLISTED ANYWAY.

Indeed.

Poem: A Soldier Goes Home Today

Never Forget

2010-11-11T12:44:00.001-08:00

The Poem

We Will Remember Them

2010-11-09T07:14:00.001-08:00

A November 11th Special on CBC.

Heroes and Hometowns

2010-11-06T18:15:00.001-07:00

Corporal Brian Pinksen

2010-09-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

Why was Corporal Brian Pinksen in Afghanistan ... what did he know that so many don't:

"In July, 1950, one news commentator rather plaintively remarked that warfare had not changed so much, after all. For some reason, ground troops still seemed to be necessary, in spite of the atom bomb. And oddly and unfortunately, to this gentleman, man still seemed to be an important ingredient in battle. Troops were still getting killed, in pain and fury and dust and filth. What happened to the widely-heralded pushbutton warfare where skilled, immaculate technicians who never suffered the misery and ignominy of basic training blew each other to kingdom come like gentlemen?
In this unconsciously plaintive cry lies buried a great deal of the truth why [Canada in Korea] was almost defeated.
Nothing had happened to pushbutton warfare; its emergence was at hand. Horrible weapons that could destroy every city on Earth were at hand—at too many hands. But, pushbutton warfare meant Armageddon, and Armageddon, hopefully, will never be an end of national policy.
[Canadians] in 1950 rediscovered something that since Hiroshima they had forgotten: you may fly over a land forever; you may bomb it, atomize it, pulverize it and wipe it clean of life—but if you desire to defend it, protect it and keep it for civilization, you must do this on the ground, the way the Roman legions did, by putting your young men in the mud. " — T.R. Fehrenbach

Thank you Corporal Brian Pinksen, for fighting for civilization.

Sapper Brian Collier

2010-08-12T07:24:00.000-07:00

What makes a hero? ... A young man who, after being wounded could've returned home to Canada and put the conflict behind him, but instead fought to get well enough so that he could return to the fight.

He did return to the fight, and gave his life.

Sapper Brian Collier

Master Cpl. Kristal Giesebrecht; Pte Andrew Miller

2010-07-15T18:46:00.000-07:00

In memory of Master Cpl. Kristal Giesbrecht and Pte. Andrew Miller, we offer a video we did several years ago.

Our two fallen heroes in this case were medics ... non-combat soldiers who were in Afghanistan to heal and assist others. We'll let the video do the talking for us, as simple words sometimes fail:

Sgt. James Patrick Macneil

2010-07-15T18:26:00.000-07:00

Our fallen soldiers are remembered in many ways. Often families and supporters of our soldiers aren't aware of the unique commemorations that exist.

A unique memorial that has sprung up is the "hero workout".

Since so many of our soldiers give keen attention to fitness, a core of their friends and associates have begun dedicating "Crossfit" workouts to the fallen. The idea springs from the United States, but a number of fallen Canadian soldiers have workouts named after them.

Crossfit is a growing phenomenon within the military. It is a gruelling and dynamic regime, and makes for incredibly fit and agile individuals. Now, thousands of athletes across North America pay tribute to those who shared a dedication to fitness, but did not return from the fields of battle.

Sgt. James Patrick Mcneil, we will never forget.

Video

Hero Workouts

Homepage

Trooper Larry Rudd; Sgt. Martin Goudreault

2010-06-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

Canadian soldiers are honoured in more ways than we often know. For instance, one Canadian tradition that honours our war dead is the Memorial Cup.

The Memorial Cup dates back to 1919, when it was introduced as a way of celebrating the game that so many soldiers loved. At that time the cup was dedicated to WW1 casualties. Today, it stands in memorial for all war dead.

In May of this year, the Memorial Cup was rededicated at CFB Shilo:

So it is that Trooper Larry Rudd and Sgt. Martin Goudreault have joined those other Canadians who are remembered even through sport. Let's never forget that our freedom to enjoy sport and recreation in peace is a direct result of soldiers who have died in far off lands so that war won't be visited on our home. It's what Canadian heroes have always done; and we, their family members and friends and fellow Canadians get to enjoy the peace ... where we can pursue our lives free of the misery that abides elsewhere.

Thank you gentlemen.

3 Warriors

2010-05-21T18:48:00.000-07:00

Petty Officer Second Class Craig Blake

Private Kevin McKay

Col. Geoff Parker

Pte. Tyler William Todd

2010-04-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

As Canada winds down its mission in Afghanistan, losses like that of Pte. Tyler William Todd seem that much more difficult. With virtually all Canadian military leaving in 2011, the sacrifice of those who fight today seems that much more difficult to bear.

What amazes those of us who know Canadian soldiers, is that they are still lining up to go into battle, to work with the PRT, to staff the scores of positions at KAF ... volunteers all. If asked about their commitment, now that Canada is leaving, most simply shrug and say that a job needs to be done, and they are on it.

For the civilian, and especially for the family member, the dedication and completely unstaunched desire to enter the fray may come as difficult concepts to grasp. But, what we often forget is that our soldiers are more than sons, fathers, daughters and mothers ... they are also warriors.

The warrior class is celebrated seldom in Canada, in fact, some shun it. Yet, Canadian history is one of warriors entering battle far from our shores and in almost every case, entering the fight on the behalf of others.

So it is that we honour Pte. Tyler William Todd ... a Canadian soldier; a Canadian warrior who gave his life for others.

WHO IS A HERO, BUT A MAN OR WOMAN WHO CONSIDERED THE ISSUES OF WAR AND POSSIBLE DEATH, AND WHO ENLISTED ANYWAY.

Cpl. Darren James Fitzpatrick

2010-04-03T08:52:00.000-07:00

While the media and even supporters of our soldiers focus primarily on those who have died in combat, it is often forgotten that many hundreds of Canadian soldiers have been injured in Afghanistan; some grievously.

One such soldier was Cpl. Darren James Fitzpatrick, who was injured in Afghanistan and survived long enough to make it home to Canada. He passed away surrounded by those who loved him.

Cpl. Fitzpatrick's battle with wounds suffered in combat serves as a reminder to us that the cost of war and service to country is also bourn by the living ... those who struggle, along with their families, to rebuild their lives because of battlefield injuries. Some, like Cpl. Fitzpatrick, lose that battle, and are added to the roll call of those who have given their all.

We will not forget them.

Cpl. Joshua Caleb Baker

2010-03-06T16:28:00.000-08:00

We often forget how dangerous military work can be, even when combat is not involved. The training process that creates outstanding fighting men and women is often dangerous, and on occasion soldiers perish while in training.

So it is that Cpl. Joshua Caleb Baker lost his life in Afghanistan while on a training exercise. We remember him here along with all the others because like them, he was one of our sons, doing the bidding of his government, a volunteer for dangerous service.

While most recoil at the sound of the guns, our warrior go to the sound of battle ... that's why we put our security and freedom in their hands.

Thank you Joshua!

To Canada; From America

2010-02-26T20:19:00.000-08:00

With Love:

Dear Michael Yon,

Today we were sent your story of February 14, 2010. The “unknown” Canadian is our son Danny. He is a 23-year-old soldier from Vancouver, Canada.

Your photographs were extraordinary and have impacted so many people here in Canada. There has been an outpouring of affection for the Americans who helped Danny in his moment of need. For that, we thank you for recording these acts of kindness into history.

Danny's injuries were the result of an explosion on February 12, 2010. Four Canadian soldiers were injured and tragically one Canadian soldier was killed. Within 20 minutes of the explosion, Danny was airlifted by helicopter to Kandahar. Upon arrival he received emergency surgery that saved his life and prepared him for the flight to Bagram that you were on.

After landing in Bagram, Danny was again airlifted by a US transport aircraft to the US Army run Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. There he underwent additional surgery that closed up his wounds. Once stabilized, the Canadian government dispatched a Challenger jet to bring him home. This afternoon in Vancouver, the shrapnel that did all the damage to him was finally removed. Danny is now recovering in hospital.

This was Danny's second tour of duty in Afghanistan and his platoon on this tour has had heavy causalities and injuries. Physically, Danny will overcome his injuries. He also has the support of his family, his friends and his community to deal with the emotional side of this war. Our hearts go out to those families who have had the loss of a soldier or who have had to deal with greater injuries.

Danny and his whole family are very grateful, and are actually overwhelmed, by the support he received while in US care. The Canadian military have also been wonderful. It is our intention to personally thank everyone who worked so hard to save Danny's life. We have already made contact with Major Deborah "Lucy" Lehker to thank her.

Sincerely,

Jim & Holly

You will find the whole background story HERE.

Operation Toasty Toes

2010-02-04T07:56:00.000-08:00

If you can knitt, you may want to get involved ...

Check out Operation Toasty Toes.

Sgt. John Faught

2010-02-03T08:36:00.000-08:00

This is a video of Sgt. John Faught's procession leaving the airport. He had a multiple police escort, firetruck, ambulance and many of his family and friends. The city streets were lined with Saulites wanting to pay their respects to our fallen hero and it was a heartbreaking sight. It truly makes you realize that humanity and caring still exist. I know that John 'the toast' was looking down and thinking of all the love and respect he seen. It doesn't matter if you believe in the war or not, it matters that you believe in the soldiers fighting it. ~ MegaLorilee

If You're Reading This by: Tim McGraw

If you're reading this, my mama's sittin there
Look's like I only got a one way ticket over here
I sure wish I could give you one more kiss
War was just a game we played when we were kids
Well I'm layin down my gun and hanging up my boots
I'm up here with God and we're both watching over you

So lay me down
In that open field out on the edge of town
And know my soul
Is where my mama always prayed that it would go
And if you're reading this
I'm already home

If you're reading this halfway around the world
I won't be there to see the birth of our little girl
I hope she looks like you
I hope she fights like me
And stands up for the innocent and the weak
I'm layin down my gun and hanging up my boots
Tell dad I don't regret that I followed in his shoes

So lay me down
In that open field out on the edge of town
And know my soul
Is where my mama always prayed that it would go
And if you're reading this
I'm already home

If you're reading this, there's gonna come a day
When you'll move on and find someone else, and that's ok
Just remember this
I'm in a better place
Where soldiers live in peace and angels sing Amazing Grace

So lay me down
In that open field out on the edge of town
And know my soul
Is where my mama always prayed that it would go
And if you're reading this

If you're reading this...
I'm already home

Administrative Issue

2010-01-16T18:35:00.000-08:00

We had to suspend adding blogs and websites to our blogroll because the blogrolling people had suspended their service. Things are working again, so anyone wishing to be added to the blogroll, please contact us.

Sgt. George Miok, Cpl. Zachery McCormack, Sgt. Kirk Taylor, Pte. Garrett Chidley

2010-01-12T19:09:00.000-08:00

How best to remember our fallen, than to let those who benefitted most from their sacrifice tell us what it means.

The following is a letter from Ehsanullah Ehsan, director of the Afghan-Canadian Community Centre in Kandahar:

To,

The Highest Esteemed Families of Ms. Michelle Lang, Sgts. George Miok,Kirk Taylor, Cpl. Zachery McCormack, and Pte. Garrett Chidley,

I am writing to extend my deepest sympathies to you, the families of Ms. Michelle Lang, Sgts. George Miok, Kirk Taylor, Cpl. Zachery McCormack, and Pte. Garrett Chidley, and the government and the great people of Canada, on behalf of the Afghan men, women children who have been given the chance to live a peaceful and prosperous life by virtue of the ultimate sacrifices paid by the Canadian men and women in uniform serving in Afghanistan. As an Afghan who has had the privilege of aiding in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, I was deeply saddened and outraged to hear that the soul of such heroic figures had departed this world, but deeply believe that their spirit will live on forever in the legacy of honor, dignity and integrity that they left for the Afghan people, the Canadians and the world at large. May you know that your grief is deeply shared by all of us. With every such tragic loss, we bleed in our hearts.

We have the greatest respect and appreciation for the ultimate sacrifices made by these heroes, and will always remember their brave and noble efforts. We admire their sincere and caring services for the love of humanity, the love of children and the love of the Afghan people, as well as for the noble purpose of ending the scourge of terrorism, oppression, extremism and human rights violations in Afghanistan and around the world. As the Director of the Afghan-Canadian Community Center in Kandahar, a school that owes its existence to the sacrifices of the Canadian people, the Canadian heroes, I will do my utmost to ensure that our students honour Ms. Michelle Lang, Sgts. George Miok, Kirk Taylor, Cpl. Zachery McCormack, and Pte. Garrett Chidley's legacy and that our teachers and students dedicate themselves to a more peaceful and prosperous future for us all.

Please let me know whether there is anything I can do to help during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We will continue to pray for their eternal soul, and that you receive the strength and courage you require in your time of need. God is with you and may you receive His blessings of peace, solace and prosperity.

Sincerely,

Ehsanullah Ehsan
Director, Afghan-Canadian Community Center.

Support Project

2010-01-09T09:43:00.001-08:00

click image

Lt. Andrew Richard Nuttall

2010-01-03T08:07:00.000-08:00

Lt. Andrew Richard Nutall left us an unusual part of himself, in that he was writing a blog while serving. We can think of no better way of honouring him, than by letting you read his words, his thoughts, and his perspective on serving his country in Afghanistan.

Lt. Andrew Richard Nuttall - In his own words:

... The other big event that happened was Eid. Its the muslim version of christmas, all of the locals will go home with their families and cook big meals. I had the lucky chance to be at 2 different Eid dinner celebrations with the ANA, where we butchered some local goat and sheep, boiled it in a curry like water, and had it with the best tasting basil i’ve had, of course lots of rice, and huge pomogranetes for desert. Wow it was so delicious, and so much food we all were stuffed! (Though i missed out on the heart and liver soup, and brain pate. Apperently it was delicious, i wanted to try). After the first Eid meal there was a big dance party, the ANA put on a very scratchy speaker with the usual shrieky arab music. That is when the night started getting a bit gay, you could see that some of the ANA probably joined for the booty, luckily i had to run to attend to the radio. On the second Eid dinner afterwards we sat around and talked for almost 2 hours, it actually was fun sharing stories and jokes.

Read the Rest.

Sapper Steven Marshall

2009-11-21T17:56:00.000-08:00

I was thinking of Sapper Steven Marshall today because in a few hours I’ll be welcoming my own son home from Afghanistan. Like most relatives, I’ll have the pleasure of seeing my child alive and well and I will be privileged to hear all the stories and experiences that he is sure to relate.

Yet, while I and so many others relish our reunions with our soldier family members, there will be those who will be in mourning. While most are joyous, a few will feel sorrow.

So it is today, that we extend our heartfelt gratitude first and foremost to the family of Sapper Steven Marshall, for his family will not be experiencing the joy of reunion. While most of us go on with our lives intact, they will be dealing with the loss of their soldier.

Sapper Steven Marshall left Canada not that long ago to participate in Canada’s mission in Afghanistan. We can only imagine the mix of emotions he felt; from excitement, to resolute sense of duty, to perhaps even misgiving. Yet, like all of our soldiers he entered the battle-space determined to do his very best. He didn’t plan on paying the ultimate price, but neither did he shy from it. In the end though, the mission that drew Sapper Steven Marshall, also took his life.

We promise to never forget and we promise to uphold the Torch that past generations of soldiers gave to Sapper Steven Marshall, and which he carried so dutifully. We will never forget that it is the sacrifice of soldiers, more than anything else, that keeps our country and our civilization free.

CTV

Lt. Justin Boyes

2009-11-11T11:15:00.000-08:00

This year’s Saskatoon Remembrance Day Ceremony was the largest indoor service in Canada with over 9000 attendees. The gathering was graced with the presence of the loving wife and the mother of Lt. Boyes, as well as Lt. Boyes’ three year old son, James.

The arena erupted in emotional applause and standing ovation as mother and wife laid a wreath in memory of Lt. Boyes and all those soldiers who have gone before. The dignity and presence of the Boyes family lent an immediacy and poignancy to the service.

There were large numbers of children in the crowd, as well as young adults and teenagers. Clearly, Canada is not forgetting her heroes and the torch is being passed on. The number of cadets present was also moving, as their numbers seem to be swelling each year. It would be seem that the example of Lt. Boyes and the other Canadian soldiers serving and sacrificing is having a positive impact on our youth.

To Lt. Boyes and his family, we say, thank you.

Never Forget

2009-11-11T06:34:00.000-08:00

The Fallen

Remembering

2009-11-10T12:01:00.000-08:00

Remembrance Day at Applebees

2009-11-09T07:20:00.000-08:00

Applebees in Toronto is offering a special for military members and families for Remembrance Day.

The Brochure ... CLICK.

Returning to Kandahar

2009-10-04T17:58:00.001-07:00

Returning to Kandahar

If I ever leave this world alive
I`ll thank ya for the things you did in my life
If I ever leave this world alive
I`ll come back down and sit beside your feet tonight
Where ever I am you`ll always be
More than just a memory
If I ever leave this world alive

If I ever leave this world alive
I`ll take on all the sadness
That I left behind
If I ever leave this world alive
The madness that you feel will soon subside
So in a word don`t shed a tear
I`ll be here when it all gets weird
If I ever leave this world alive

So when in doubt just call my name
Just before you go insane
If I ever leave this world
Hey I may never leave this world
But if I ever leave this world alive

She says I`m okay; I`m all right,
Though you have gone from my life
You said that it would
Now everything should be alright

She says I`m okay; I`m all right,
Though you have gone from my life
You said that it would
Now everything should be alright
Yeah should be alright

~ Flogging Molly

Pte. Jonathan Couturier

2009-09-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

From CTV:

For those who have fought for it, freedom has a flavor the protected will never know!

Firstly, my deepest sympathies to Pte. Jonathan Couturier's family and to the rest of his brave regiment still serving.You all pay a debt that sadly few fully recognize and understand in this country. I thank you for your sacrifice and determination to carry on with such a difficult mission and pray that more people realize the impact your having on keeping us all safe. Thank you again, and God Bless you and all others serving!

There are many of us who have lived longer and fought for much less of lesser meaning. Our troops are doing work that they and the country should be proud to have done.

Now that I have a son, everytime I read the headlines of a fallen Canadian soldier, I no longer look at their picture and think to myself what a brave soldier. Instead I now look at their picture and think...wow, that was somebody's child.R.I.P. Jonathan and may your comarades recover soon.Thank you to you out there and to the mothers and fathers who support their "child" with their decision to fight for us all.

I cannot express enought to you how greatful I am and honoured to be protected by such brave remarkable soldiers. There lives and sacrifice will NEVER be forgotten. As i lower my flag for the 131 time i am reminded of a saying "IF YOU WILL NOT STAND BEHIND OURS SOLDIER THAN PICK UP A WEAPON AND STAND IN FRONT OF THEM" or thank them for the safety freedom they provided while you lay down to sleep tonight in your warm bed.

I am in awe of two things: 1) that there still exists in our world today self-less men and women who put their lives on the line for people they will never meet, and 2) that this is something they have chosen to do freely of and by themselves. My utmost and deepest respect and appreciation.

Trucking On in Memory

2009-09-22T07:21:00.001-07:00

... the story.

Pte. Patrick Lormand

2009-09-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

Pte. Patrick Lormand

A Soldier

There is discipline in A Soldier
you can see it when he walks,
There is honor in A Soldier
you hear it when he talks.
There is courage in A Soldier
you can see it in his eyes,
There is loyalty in A Soldier
that he will not compromise.
There is something in A Soldier
that makes him stand apart,
There is strength in A Soldier
that beats from his heart.
A Soldier isn't a title any man
can be hired to do,
A Soldier is the soul of that man
buried deep inside of you.
A Soldier's job isn't finished after
an 8 hour day or a 40 hour week,
A Soldier is always A Soldier
even while he sleeps.
A Soldier serves his country first
and his life is left behind,
A Soldier has to sacrifice what
comes first in a civilian's mind.
If you are civilian -
I am saying this to you.....
next time you see A Soldier
remember what they do.
A Soldier is the reason our land
is 'Home of the free',
A Soldier is the one that is brave
protecting you and me.
If you are A Soldier -
I am saying this to you.....
Thank God for EVERY SOLDIER
Thank God for what YOU do!

~ Angela Goodwin

Maj. Yannick Pepin; Cpl. Jean-Francois Drouin

2009-09-17T19:45:00.000-07:00

Col. Roch Lacroix ~

"Saying goodbye to Yannick and Jean-Francois so prematurely is hard for me, it is hard for their friends, and it's hard for their families,"

"Engineers like Yannick and Jean-Francois....put in a great deal of effort in Afghanistan where they're denying the ability of the insurgents to kill innocent victims on a large scale or simply reconstructing a bridge, roads, schools with their Afghan partners."

"Nothing comes easy here and it takes patience and determination -- two qualities that both men embodied. Today is the time to grieve but tomorrow we will continue our work to better the lives of Afghans."

"Proof of (Yannick's compassion) was when he was on patrol once and stopped his vehicle to take a kite out of the antenna from his vehicle. He handed it to the small Afghan child who thought it had been lost. That day he carried a big grin,"

"Yannick was a man of action who was always involved in things and put his personal interests second. We miss him enormously."

"Jean-Francois was a very generous man with a big heart, as big a heart as the three pieces of steel he liked to lift in the gymnasium."

We will not call you a casualty.
We will not number you. You are
our mothers and fathers, our aunts
and uncles, brothers and sisters,
husbands and wives, friends, lovers
and neighbors, our cousins
and grandparents.

We will write for you.

We will remember you.

Two Families Remember

2009-09-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

Two families memorialize their sons.

Pte Kevin Dallaire

Cpl. Bryce Keller

We will never forget.

Governor General Michaelle Jean in Afghanistan

2009-09-09T21:50:00.000-07:00

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan -- Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean wrapped up a secret two-day visit to Afghanistan on Wednesday that saw her weep for Canada's war dead and for the conflict-racked country's youngest victims, insisting all the while that the sacrifices won't have been in vain.

Jean spent the duration of her visit clad in the uniform of the Canadian soldier, symbolic of her role as the Canadian military's commander-in-chief. For security reasons, her visit had to be kept secret until after she had left Afghan airspace and was on her way back to Canada.

Jean wiped away tears while laying flowers at the centotaph at Kandahar Airfield, which bears the names of 129 Canadian soldiers killed as part of the Afghan mission since it began in 2002 -- including Maj. Yannick Pepin and Master Cpl. Jean-Francois Drouin, both of whom died Sunday when their convoy was struck by an improvised explosive device, or IED.

"It's painful when we see our soldiers being wounded or being killed by these IEDs," Jean said in an interview with The Canadian Press.

"But we have to remember that every time they try to destroy those terrible weapons, they're saving lives of civilians here and the Afghan children."

Jean later told several hundred Canadian troops that their deeds would not be forgotten.

"Know that your fellow Canadians are very proud of what you accomplish here and are very much aware of the sacrifices you make," she said.

"You have come to this troubled area of the world to defend the democratic ideals to which all peoples should be able to aspire. You, who risk everything to create a safe environment . . . (for) the women, children and men of Afghanistan."

Jean became misty-eyed while addressing a classroom of young Afghan women at Sayad Pasha school, not far from the base. In a land where women have traditionally not been allowed to get an education, Jean said she was thrilled with the progress that's been made.

"We need to seize every opportunity to realize our dreams, and I want you to tell me what Afghanistan needs," she said.

The answers she heard back were hardly surprising.

"The best thing needed in Afghanistan is peace," said one girl. "For the past 30 years we lost lots of our family members and we are hoping we will get peace."

"This is the message that needs to be told back home," Jean replied, as she turned to the entourage that accompanied her on her journey. "We will do this together."

A trip to the multinational Role 3 Hospital on the base appeared to be almost too much for Jean to take.

A young girl, her grandfather by her side, had been brought in for treatment and was laying quietly in a hospital bed.

"How old is she?" Jean asked, grasping the hand of the little girl, who was identified as Amina.

"Nine," replied the interpreter, who explained that Amina was on her way to a village to buy presents for the upcoming Muslim holiday of Eid when an IED went off.

"I have a daughter," Jean said. "She is 10. I will tell her that I've met you."

"Nice to meet you," Amina replied, smiling shyly.

Earlier in the day, Jean paid a visit to Camp Nathan Smith, the headquarters for Canada's Provincial Reconstruction Team in Kandahar city.

Once there, she told Afghan leaders that she's "saddened" by the fact any debate exists at all about whether Canada should be in the country and helping its less fortunate.

She said the suggestion that Canada's war in Afghanistan is a "lost cause" hurts her deeply.

"I think it's important to see that our efforts are not in vain, and when we hear Afghan people and even children saying that the priority is security -- this is what they hope for," she said.

"It's very important that Canadians realize that, yes, our soldiers are taking many risks, but are also doing something that is absolutely exceptional."

Source

Sgt. Darby Morin

2009-08-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

We were reminded recently that a number of Canadians are fighting in the Afghan conflict, but with other nations. If we've neglected to honour Canadians who died while serving with either the United States or other countries, please email us and we'll be sure to make things right.

We'd like to draw your attention at this time to the sacrifice of Sgt. Darby Morin, who was killed in Afghanistan while serving with the US Army.

A fallen soldier from the Big River First Nation will be remembered as a brave role model and loving father.

United States Army Sgt. Darby Morin, 25, died early Saturday when the driver of the vehicle he was travelling in lost control, causing a rollover near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, according to information provided to the Prince Albert Daily Herald.

Heavy fog blanketed the road at the time. Morin was wearing his seatbelt but was unconscious when military medics arrived on the scene.

Morin was the nephew of Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations vice-chief Lyle Whitefish.

Whitefish, reached by phone Monday, was in Delaware preparing for Morin's body to arrive back in the United States at Dover Air Force Base

... more details.

Cpl. Christian Bobbitt; Sapper Matthieu Allard

2009-08-18T19:32:00.000-07:00

In memory of Cpl. Christian Bobbitt and Sapper matthieu Allard we offer the following two poems. One poem expresses how we feel ... the other, written by a soldier, expresses the incredible servant's heart that glows at the core of each warrior:

Sleep well, soldier
know that you are honored
your name is not forgotten

we stand humbled
bowed in awe and sorrow
before your sacrifice

sleep well, soldier
sleep well
we will remember you

~ Susanna Holstein

Sacrifice

Let me be the fallen soldier -
a single, nameless face.
Let me simply fall in honor,
dying in this place.

I don’t wish my name be written
in countless hist’ry books.
I don’t want the endless praise
for how, the earth, I shook.

Let me be the nameless soldier,
one who died for all.
When evil came to take us down,
just know I heard the call.

I’ll gladly lay my life down here,
give up this mortal shape.
I’ll give up my last breath for good,
before taking my escape.

Let me be the unknown soldier,
who died for peace at last,
with no problem disappearing
into nameless past.

~ Jaime McDougall

Pte. Sebastien Courcy

2009-08-04T10:20:00.000-07:00

From CTV.ca ...

Sam Jackson
My thoughts and prayers are with friends and family of Pte. Sebastien Courcy. May you find comfort in knowing how much your sacrifice means to our nation. Lest we forget. Rest In Peace Pte. Courcy.

Edmonton John
I feel a bitter sense of loss and pain every time I read such headlines. The last is as painful as the first. It's a feeling I can never get used to. Complete sadness.
The sorrow felt by his family must be many orders of magnitude greater than mine. I can only offer my condolences to his family and comrades.

Remarkable
Thank you for your service to your country. I will honour your memory always.
God bless and comfort his family while during their time of mourning.
I ask that people who put their comments here, to not make this political, but to remember one of our native sons, who has just laid down his life.

Wanda
Another one of our soldiers has fallen. Once again I will stand along the Highway of Heros to remember you soldier.
My deepest condolences to your family and friends.
Rest in peace soldier.

Cpl in Ottawa
Rest Well brother, take peace in knowing the end of war. To his Family I am sorry foryour loss.

Terry & Joan Maloney
We grieve for you Sebastien. Our Prayers fo out to your family, for they will surely miss you. Another Canadian Hero. God Bless Him.

Ex Coelis
"You've never lived until you've nearly died. For those who have fought for it, Freedom has a flavor the Protected will never know"(author unknown). My deepest condolences to Private Courcy's family and my profoundest thanks to Private Courcy for your sacrifice.

Repos doucement, mon ami. Repos doucement... Voyez-vous le matin.

Ann
Condolences to the family of Pte. Courcy. Be proud of your son for choosing to do what he thought was the right thing. Another fine young Canadian will be forever remembered for making the ultimate sacrifice. You and he will be in our prayers.

Master Cpl. Charles-Philippe Michaud

2009-07-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

Canadians often forget about the many injured soldiers who have returned from Afghanistan. They number in the hundreds.

When, one of the injured passes away as a result of injuries, we are suddenly reminded of the often hidden cost.

Master Cpl. Charles-Philippe Michaud recently died from injuries sustained in Afghanistan. He made it home to Canada, but as far as we understand, never regained consciousness.

We are deeply moved and can think of nothing better to commemorate his passing than our favorite poem which speaks of our beloved Maple Leafs Falling. Master Cpl. Charles-Philippe Michaud made it home, where he passed away among those who loved him most ...

Maple Leafs

By: J.S. McGregor (March 2006)

The Maple Leafs are falling
On foreign soil once again,
To be scattered cross the desert
By unforgiving Asian wind.

This dust is barren, unprotected,
Unlike his field of wheat;
The sand is so unlike his Maritimes,
No majestic Rockie peak.

He hears a lonely Piper now,
Black boots marching through the snow,
The warm drape of the Maple Leaf,
Tells him all he has to know.

Four winds have gently cast the Leaf,
To land on home terrain,
Flying freely there, he will declare,
His fall was not in vain.

J.S. McGregor

Master Cpl. Pat Audet, Cpl. Martin Joannette

2009-07-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

Soldiers and Machines:

We have heard over the years how this or that soldier died while on "exercises". Usually, it was the result of an accident which involved powerful equipment.

Soldiers have always suffered injury or worse because of the equipment they use. Even in past eras, troopers often perished or were hurt by horses, siege equipment, or the very weapons they depended on. From ships to battlements, the equipment of soldiering has always taken its toll.

In Afghanistan our soldiers work in extremely harsh conditions with dangerous equipment. Those working with and around helicopters, in particular, take risks each time they venture out, especially in the extreme heat of the Afghan summer. No matter how careful, no matter how prepared, it is impossible to forestall or avoid all accidents.

Master Cpl. Pat Audet and Cpl. Martin Joanette understood fully the risks they faced. They were soldiers, who through drill and practice not only learned their trade ... but were fully apprised of the inherent dangers. Yet, they did their jobs with full conviction and dedication ... no matter the risks. That is, after all, what draws men like them to soldiering.

Safety and security is not what soldiers seek ... otherwise they'd be more like the rest of us. That is why we honour them ... that is what sets them apart.

CTV

Cpl. Nick Bulger

2009-07-12T10:49:00.001-07:00

In memory of Cpl. Nick Bulger we can think of no better way of honouring him, than to let him tell us himself about the mission he was on.

Corporal Nick Bulger

Please read the comments at CTV as well, for many express better than we ever could on these pages the gratitude we feel.

Update: The Corporal Nick Bulger video has been taken down by CBC, so we replace it with the following link.

Many soldiers keep fit using the challenging Crossfit Program. Crossfit dedicates some workouts to fallen soldiers and law-enforcement officers. There is now a workout dedicated to Corporal Nick Bulgar.

Cpl. Martin Dube

2009-06-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

There are individuals in this world who volunteer to disassemble bombs with their bare hands ... and to do so under the most dangerous of circumstances. It boggles the mind, sitting safe and secure in the luxury of our homes here in Canada, to imagine that there are such men and women.

Yet, within our military many are tasked with doing just that. Explosive devices can most often be disarmed using robots or explosives, but on occasion circumstances dictate that bare hands are the only means to be used and into this situation step our specially trained soldiers. They do it as often as they have to, without complaint, without regret. And more often than not they emerge safe and sound, confident in the knowledge that they’ve saved lives and neutralized grave threat.

Sometimes though ... and rarely so, things go wrong and these brave souls perish in a flash.

Cpl. Martin Dube was one of those tasked with neutralizing explosive devices. In this case something went wrong.

We’ve often stated in this space how we admire those who run to the sound of the guns while others flee ... we marvel even more at a man who would quietly and painstakingly disassemble death with his bare hands.

Bravery and courage is etched with the names of soldiers like Cpl. Martin Dube. We are truly humbled.

Pte. Alexandre (Pelo) Peloquin

2009-06-15T13:19:00.000-07:00

So what brought Pte. Alexandre Peloquin to Afghanistan? Duty? Conviction of purpose? Thrill?

Frankly, we don't know and only those close to him will. What we do know, is that Pelo was a fit, able, and keen soldier. This tells us that like virtually all those serving, he was dedicated to the mission at hand and an eager participant. And, along with his mates, he was a foreigner in a foreign land struggling to bring a downtrodden people into this century.

Pelo knew what total and utter abject poverty was ... something I doubt he knew prior to landing in Afghanistan ... and Pelo knew what evil was ... something he likely had no idea existed until he saw the acts wrought by the Taliban. And, like virtually all of our soldiers, once he knew and understood poverty and evil, Pelo would've become as tenacious and dedicated a defender of Canada and the Afghan people as can be possible.

This is the legacy of our fallen. They put their bodies and lives in jeopardy ... willingly ... to not only do our bidding, but to defend total strangers in a land that civilization has forgotten.

The whole idea of a cable, fit, strong, and young man giving his life ... willingly ... for his country and strangers ... simply to give them a chance at joining civilization, humbles us all.

Pelo ... rest in the peace you deserve. If the world were to run out of warriors like you, we know that all we have gained and taken for granted would be lost. Our entire civilization rests on the shoulders of warriors and ambassadors like you.

From CTV we get an idea of the gains made in Afghanistan:

For the first time in many years the production of wheat in Afghanistan is surpassing the production of poppies used to make heroin -- partly due to Canada's leadership in the region, said Defence Minister Peter MacKay on Thursday.

[...]

MacKay pointed to the Dahla Dam project, which is allowing local farmers to irrigate their fields and crops, as a sign that Canada's contribution is making a difference. That work is only possible because Canadian troops provide security and protection -- sometimes at a high cost, he said.

"We're seeing for the first time in Afghanistan in many, many years, that wheat production is surpassing poppy production, and their ability to feed themselves (is growing)," MacKay said.

"We're also seeing education and the building of schools, the immunization of children. All of this is enabled by the soldiers, the security they provide, and men such as Peloquin who gave his life."

Maj. Michelle Mendes

2009-05-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

As of this writing a lot of secrecy surrounds the death of Maj. Michelle Mendes. All we really know, is that she did not die as a result of combat. We can speculate, but doing so doesn’t change anything; it doesn’t change the fact Maj. Michelle Mendes was on her second tour in Afghanistan and that like all Canadians who serve, she was there as a volunteer. We will not forget Major Michelle Mendes.

Since Maj. Michelle Mendes’ passing is a mystery, it gives us opportunity to examine an often forgotten part of soldiering.

Canadian soldiers are our sisters, brothers, fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters. They come in every possible type, as varied a group as can be found in any Canadian town or city. Some are adventure seekers, others are driven by a desire to help Afghans, yet others want to round out careers in the Canadian Forces. Our soldiers come in a myriad of personality types as well, from the intellectual to the brash, from the sanguine to the wary.

Our soldiers also take with them to Afghanistan many burdens; not all things are left behind. Some have ailing parents, others failing relationships or debt or sorrow. They go about their work in Afghanistan but always when the lights dim and bustle ceases, the burdens of home can come to haunt.

It is this fact that makes us respect our soldiers that much more. Soldiering can be a lonely and oft time thankless task. Parent soldiers aren’t there for the first steps, spouses can’t be there to assist when the car breaks down, and soldiers can’t intervene when relationships begin to collapse.

So it is, that we feel that much more grateful to our men and women in military service; knowing full well that their burden is oft time more than danger.

Trooper Karine Blais

2009-04-23T08:13:00.000-07:00

Trooper Karine Blais grew up with opportunities and equality. She was offered real choices in her life ... part of the privilege of living in Canada. Karine did not have to cover herself when she went outdoors, she was free to attend school, free to be involved in the activities of her choosing, and free to pursue her dreams and express opinions without fear of retribution.

Karine Blais chose the Canadian Forces and she did so at a time when Canada was involved in armed conflict where Canadian soldiers were being killed. Karine chose what traditionally and in most countries would be a man’s profession ... and she excelled.

Trooper Karine Blais died as a Canadian soldiers, in the service of her country, and during a mission that attempts to bring to Afghan women at least a tiny bit of the freedom that she enjoyed.

How humbling, that a young Canadian women would give her life for a cause that brings to Afghan women that which she could take for granted.

It has been said that the greatest gift one can offer is to lay down their life for another.

Whenever we see images of young Afghan girls attending school, let us never forget the young woman who perished while defending their right to pursue a better life. Trooper Karine Blais is there with them; watching over their shoulders; offering each and every girl in Kandahar province a chance ... a chance that Trooper Blais bought with her life.

4 More

2009-03-29T17:08:00.000-07:00

In honour of Master Cpl. Scott Vernelli; Cpl. Tyler Crooks; Trooper Jack Bouthillier; Trooper Corey Joseph Hayes and their families.

Not only do we remember and honour our soldiers, we also pay our respects and offer our gratitude to their families:

VIDEO

Details

A Contribution by Remo Cino

2009-03-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

I wrote this song as a tribute to our Canadian and American troops fighting overseas, to their families, and to all the Heros we've lost..God Bless. ~ Remo Cino

Highway of Heroes

2009-03-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

With a son serving in Afghanistan, one becomes that much more appreciative of the Canadians who turn out to show their respects to soldiers killed in Afghanistan, and to offer support to the families who mourn, in what has become known as the Highway of Heroes.

Don Martin of the National Post revisits the Highway of Heroes:

A Canadian tradition that brings out the best Salute to fallen soldiers a ritual worth exporting.

From the first glimpse of flashing police escorts to the last black vehicle flashing under the Highway 401 overpass, the funeral procession takes only half a silence-filled minute to pass.

Yet they start gathering an hour in advance for a unique tradition Canadians have embraced to salute their fallen soldiers -- and there's growing international pressure for other military powers to follow suit.

They were shivering in a brisk wind on Highway of Heroes overpasses again this week, the general public joining firefighters standing atop an aerial truck and flag-bearing war veterans as the body of Trooper Marc Diab, Canada's 112th dead soldier, was whisked from Trenton air base to the coroner's office in Toronto.

This picturesque town of 6,300 an hour's drive east of Toronto was among the first whose firefighters took to the bridge to flash their lights as the procession flew by. The Legion branch joined in almost immediately and now upwards of 200 Brighton locals turn up for every fallen soldier's repatriation convoy.

Truck horns blare from below at crowds waiting on a bridge curb given a special night-before clearing by the town. Many are regulars who have never missed a soldier's final voyage, taking time off work in fair and foul weather to wave Maple Leaf flags.

And as the hearse goes by, flags snapping in the wind over Canada's busiest highway is all you hear as locals crane their necks for glimpses of family members waving. As Trooper Diab's convoy rushed below Thursday, a stretch limousine window was open, one sad face looking upward at the blurred spectacle of so many strangers waving back.

The concept of overpass sentinels is starting to spread. Large crowds are taking to Toronto overpasses and hundreds turned up last week on the far side of the metropolis as a soldier was transported home to the Niagara region.

The goose-bumping power of this salute is rooted in the spontaneous simplicity of its creation and growth...

there's nothing comparable to Canada's multi-staged treatment of its fallen anywhere in the world.

The London Evening Standard last year ran contrasting photos [see here] of Canadian versus British treatment of the fallen, heaping shame on how the hearses bearing U. K. soldiers are only escorted by the undertaker's vehicle and usually get stuck in traffic [meanwhile, see how live returning soldiers may be greated--more here].

The Highway of Heroes story has been covered by CNN and Newsweek magazine last month noted that "Canada may have an answer" with its overpass salutes as an option for Americans trying to respect family privacy while allowing the public to observe the human cost of combat.

Under media pressure, President Barack Obama has ordered a review of the country's hidden and heartless U. S. casualty repatriation policy. Dead American soldiers now return home to a camera ban at the air base and are hustled off without ceremony to the mortuary and onward to burial. Photos of U. S. flag-draped coffins are almost always unauthorized.

Perhaps foreign military and political leaders who fear public displays of honour and respect for the fallen will become a public relations headache should stand in the blustery winter winds of a 401 overpass just once after a fallen soldier goes home.

They would quickly come to the conclusion that, when it comes to honouring its military dead, the world needs more Canada.

Trooper Marc Diab

2009-03-10T18:49:00.000-07:00

"Feeling lonely is only the first stop ... but getting to wait and knowing that your [sic] waiting to go back is the hard part ... I am coming back ... I promise ... cause I was born to be a soldier ... soldier of freedom," ~ Marc Diab
So what did Marc ask of us?

Did he demand attention, honour, recognition?

Did he complain that his country wasn't good enough, or that his job was beneath him?

Did he whine and complain?

Absolutely not.

Marc was where he wanted to be, where he had dreamed of being since he was a small boy.

Trooper Marc Diab volunteered for military service. He was a fairly new Canadian, having come to Canada for a better life, yet no sooner had he grown up than he was enrolled in the Canadian Forces and soon he was off to Afghanistan.

He left behind the love of his life whom he intended on marrying, and he left behind a loving family. He put his shoulder to the task with complete dedication, and he died doing so ... a new and young Canadian, dying for his country.

Trooper Marc Diab's sacrifice is so humbling that words escape us, especially for those of us who have long established roots in Canada. What can we say? Whatever can we offer up for a new Canadian who so early in life sacrificed for our Canada.

Thank you Marc ... thank you for setting an example for those of us who may have forgotten what it is to love freedom.

"It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived." - George S. Patton
CTV Globe and Mail

The Life and Death of a Canadian Hero

2009-03-10T18:20:00.001-07:00

“We have become too civilized to grasp the obvious. For the truth is very simple. To survive you often have to fight, and to fight you have to dirty yourself. War is evil, and it is often the lesser evil. Those who take the sword perish by the sword...” ~ George Orwell

Canadians who serve in Afghanistan come in all types. It's amazing how diverse a crew they are, from the bookish to the thrill seeking from the intellectual to the badass, they join together in a team to pursue what is perhaps one of the most challenging missions ever given the CF.

The Afghan conflict is stunningly complex, and "victory" there is going to be illusive simply because "winning" in the normal sense is not going to happen. The day is never going to arrive when each and every Taliban lays down arms and gives up. Long after we are gone some group or other will be plying the Hindukush looking for someone to torment.

But, victory can be had, if it is defined in realistic and actionable terms ... and if our team, that being all of ISAF and the United States of America, pulls it's load. Some of our "allies" have been less than enthusiastic ... playing more the role of water boys than warriors.

Nevertheless, we can be proud of those who do our bidding in Afghanistan. They are surely a special breed who willingly play with fire, and who run to the sound of guns while the rest flee ... or worse yet ... whine and complain.

Master Corporal Erin Doyle is one of those who served in Afghanistan. His story is unique though ... he was a giant of a man ... a real badass ... literally. Yet like so many of his kind, beneath the cast iron veneer was a complex and caring human being.

Master Corporal Erin Doyle died in Afghanistan:

“He died pulling the trigger. He died screaming into the face of the enemy.”
... Master Corporal Erin Doyle's story.

ht: The Torch

Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, Cpl. Dany Olivier Fortin and Cpl. Kenneth Chad O'Quinn

2009-03-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

With a son now serving in Afghanistan, I'm finding the preperation of tributes on these pages even more personal.

There is so much that one wants to say ... yet nothing one says can ever be enough. Somewhere in Canada, families have just had the dreaded visit from DND, and now they are plunged into grief. The rest of us are left thinking about our chances of getting that same visit, yet feeling so proud of our serving family members. We support them, and respect their choice to serve. We offer our sympathy to those who are left to pick up the pieces.

In memory of our latest three, Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, Cpl. Dany Olivier Fortin and Cpl. Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, I'd like to give you a piece from The Standard:

Heroes.

That was the toast shouted out by patrons of Flats Bar and Grill after three names in black paint were added to a large, bright-red wall.

Those names -- Cpl. Dany Fortin, Cpl. Kenneth O'Quinn and St. Catharines soldier Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown -- brought the total number on the wall of the fallen to 111 -- the number of Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan.

"I want you all to raise a toast to these heroes, all of them," said Mishelle Brown, Dennis Brown's widow. She touched her husband's name on the wall and wiped back tears.

"All of them. All the ones who have died and all of those still out there fighting."

Brown's widow and two of his children lingered by the wall, running their fingers along Brown's name. Many of those who had toasted the soldier were also wiping their eyes. Many more let the tears fall freely.

Dennis Brown's friends, family and co-workers gathered at the bar, owned by Brown's ex-wife, to share some drinks, some hugs and stories. Members of the Lincoln and Welland Regiment were joined by cops, firefighters and lawyers who knew Brown from his life as a Niagara Regional Police special constable.

The same stories circulated the bar. How Brown loved the army and had to fight to get the time off from the NRP to serve in Afghanistan. How he was close to coming home. How he is the first serving Lincoln and Welland Regiment member killed while in a combat zone since the Second World War.

A few admitted they were still feeling the effects of a long night spent drinking and crying at the Lake Street armoury after the news of Brown's death reached St. Catharines.

One of Brown's friends even tattooed the soldier's name on the inside of his right biceps.

But it was the wall that drew everyone's attention. At some point during the night, among the hugs and long stares at the television news about Canada's recent losses in Afghanistan, nearly everyone walked by the wall.

Sapper Sean Greenfield

2009-02-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

While offering our gratitude to Sapper Sean Greenfield, it is important to remind ourselves of what exactly it is that Sean and his mates have accomplished; it is important to remind ourselves that Sapper Sean Greenfield was fulfilling a very clear purpose.

First and foremost, our soldiers have given Afghans an opportunity to join in the world at large. Afghanistan is by far one of the poorest and most undeveloped places on earth, where violence and abuse are simply a fact of life. Even the term “reconstruction” is a misnomer ... as what we are doing is construction from the ground up. There is actually very little in Afghanistan to reconstruct.

It is this state of underdevelopment that made Afghanistan the perfect place for terrorists to build networks from which to attack our way of life. What is often forgotten though, is that while we mourn the devastation caused by terror attacks on the West, ordinary Afghans have lived with terror for decades now. Women and girls in particular, are singled out.

So it is, that our forces have used their ability to inflict violence to reduce destruction and violence. It is through acts of violence and threat of violence that they have turned back what are some of the most barbaric forces imaginable. It is our soldiers, like Sapper Sean Greenfield, who through the force of arms and violence are slowly wrestling Afghanistan from the clutches of truly evil forces.

The risks to those like Sapper Sean Greenfield are great. They are men who know violence ... for while we live our peaceful lives sheltered by Canadian values and institutions, they volunteer to go out into a land that couldn't be more the antithesis of Canada. What these brave souls are doing though, is little by little bringing a tiny bit of Canada to Afghanistan. Soldiers like Sapper Sean Greenfield have given Afghans a chance of emerging from decades of utter poverty and slavery.

We know that if Afghans can live in a more stable and peaceful society, that we will be safer ourselves. We know, that each and every Canadian soldier who dies in Afghanistan does so for a more stable world. Those who die, do so while standing between evil and innocents.

If it is therefore a fact, that our goal is a more stable and safe Afghanistan, and that destruction of or the defeat of those who want to return Afghanistan to barbarism is our goal, then how best can we support and honour those who have died? What would Sapper Sean Greenfield have us do?

I know where I stand ... I stand with Sapper Sean Greenfield. He died for me; and he died for Afghans; it’s the least I can do to remember Sapper Sean Greenfield. He died doing a task which he believed in ... and I will support that task.

Trooper Brian Richard Good

2009-01-14T09:25:00.000-08:00

There is discipline in A Soldier
you can see it when he walks,
There is honor in A Soldier
you hear it when he talks.

There is courage in A Soldier
you can see it in his eyes,
There is loyalty in A Soldier
that he will not compromise.

There is something in A Soldier
that makes him stand apart,
There is strength in A Soldier
that beats from his heart.

A Soldier isn't a title
any man can be hired to do,
A Soldier is the soul
of that man buried deep inside of you.

A Soldier's job isn't finished
after an 8 hour day or a 40 hour week,
A Soldier is always
A Soldier even while he sleeps.

A Soldier serves his country first
and his life is left behind,
A Soldier has to sacrifice
what comes first in a civilian's mind.

If you are civilian -
I am saying this to you...

... next time you see A Soldier
remember what they do.

A Soldier is the reason
our land is 'Home of the free',
A Soldier is the one
that is brave protecting you and me.

If you are A Soldier -
I am saying this to you...

... Thank God for EVERY SOLDIER
Thank God for what YOU do!

by: Angela Goodwin

We will not forget Trooper Brian Richard Good.

Sgt. Gregory Kruse and Warrant Officer Gaetan Roberge

2008-12-28T16:59:00.000-08:00

For Sgt. Gregory Kruse and Warrant Officer Gaetan Roberge

Will the bagpipers play on my funeral day?
Will a sea of blue stretch down this long road?
As Harleys rumble by and choppers thunder overhead
It is the sweet sounds of the bagpipers that I hear instead.

All have come here to pay their respects.
To listen to the story of the brave act I did.
Worry not for me because I'll be all right.
It is my wife who needs comfort
Through these long nights--
Who will teach my boy what is to be a man
Who will be there to hold my little girl's hand.
It is my family that needs you now,
for I am at rest.
Let it be known that I worked with the best.

I did not live the longest of lives,
nor one of great wealth.
It is the sacrifice I made that put me high upon this shelf,
Treated as a pauper in life but as a king in death.
All I did was my job like so many before.
So when you turn to drink to comfort your way
Remember what it is that I have to say.

When you raise your glass in memory of my name
Know you are my brother for you would have done the same.
It is only we who run toward what others run from
Now I run no more, for my work is done.

As this wooden vessel carries my body through this sea of blue
Listen for the bagpipers and hear what they play
For it is their sweet music that carries my soul today.

by: Sergeant Joseph P. M.
September 20, 2001

I Stand For You

2008-12-26T17:19:00.000-08:00

For: Private Michael Bruce Freeman

I Stand For You

When terror grips you,
and the fabric of civility tears,
I stand for you.

On foreign soil,
where peace is
but a whispered hope,
I stand for you.

As bullets fly like bees,
and hateful bombs explode
threatening to steal my sanity -
I stand for you.

I carry broken bodies
back to be mended,
and no matter how hard I try -
the tears fall like rain,
and still through all the pain,
I stand for you.

That is until I fall,
and I wonder,
as I lay cold and still ...

Will you remember,
and stand for me.

We at Canadian Heroes promise that we will not forget Private Michael Bruce Freeman, and we will, stand for him and his family.

... more details.

Cpl. Thomas Hamilton, Pte. John Curwin, Pte. Justin Jones

2008-12-18T06:18:00.001-08:00

What others said:

CDB
Rest easy boys....God bless your families during this holiday season. I will say a prayer for you!

Sherry in Ottawa
RIP brothers - you have done your job, now others will follow to do what you all believe in. Condolences to all families and friends. We will not forget you.

Phil Bowser
As I fellow soldier and friend from 2 RCR my hart go's out to the families and friend of our fallen. My prayers and thoughts are with you all in this our time of need.

Dean, Brampton, Ontario
God Bless These Most Honorable Men.There sacrafice will not be forgoten.My deepest condolancies to their famalies.

Tim McDermott Rawdon NS
Another sad day for three devastated families, the Army, and the country as a whole. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning. We will remember them. God rest their souls, and grant them the peace they have so justly earned.

Raylene and Bill MacEachern
May God Bless you all.Condolences to all the families and comrades.You will never be forgotten!

Raylene and Bill,Sundre Alberta

Brad
Pro Patria, brothers

... much much more.

Cpl. Mark Robert McLaren, Warrant Officer Robert John Wilson and Pte. Demetrios Diplaros

2008-12-07T20:37:00.001-08:00

This past week the number of Canadian deaths suffered in Afghanistan rose to 100. It's a milestone for Canada, because not since the Korean War have our soldiers fought such a protracted and bloody conflict. In the years that followed the Korean War, UN missions of Peace Keeping became the norm and as a result war zone deaths diminished.

Here at Canadian Heroes we aim to memorialize those who have fallen in Afghanistan and to offer respect and sympathy to their families. After all, it is their loved ones who must continue to bear the burden for the rest of their days ... so in a very real way, they sacrifice for this country as well.

We see how willing our soldiers are to go into harm's way ... how dependable they are, how courageous. We marvel at their dedication not only to their peers and country, but to the mission they've been sent to perform.

These latest deaths have offered us another glimpse into our soldier's make-up, through the actions of Cpl. Mark Robert McLaren. He was on his second tour. He'd been wounded on this first tour ... but he was eager to get back into the fray. Several weeks ago, in fact, he crawled through fire to a wounded Afghan soldier.

The act demonstrated how incredibly focused and dedicated our people are ... not only are they loyal to each other, but as Cpl. McLaren demonstrated, they are selfless even when it comes to the Afghan soldiers they are training. No matter what can be said and debated about the merits of the mission, one thing all must marvel at, is the dedication and determination in the hearts of our soldiers. They were once just ordinary Canadian men and women who put on uniforms, trained relentlessly, then became extraordinary Canadian heroes. When faced with evil ... faced with imminent danger ... faced with fear ... they overcome again and again and set an example for us all.

What’s even more amazing is that so many of them are so young … yet so exemplary.

We are humbled and honoured to remember them here ... Our Canadian Heroes.

CTV

Papa Shipway

2008-09-10T10:24:00.000-07:00

It is the burden of senior ranks within the combat arms to lead from the front. Not only must they be exemplary while under fire, but they must keep their heads when all hell breaks loose. If they don't, young men and women die or bad situations turn into disastrous situations.

Most critical of all though, is that they must provide the glue that keeps units together during traumatic events. They shepherd their charges through ambushes, IED attacks, and accidents. The burden they carry is enormous ... and they often carry it alone.

What few recognize as well, is that they live with the crushing guilt of sending men and women under their command to die. Be it simply by sending a group of soldiers to walk a given path ... or choosing the order of patrol ... when bad things happen they live with the fallout forever.

Sgt. Scott (papa) Shipway was a leader. He was experienced and trusted. He led from the front.

Chaplain Capt. Darren Persaud:
" [Sgt. Scott Shipway] watched over his men, like a father guards his children, and that is how he will forever be remembered,"

Capt. Darren Persaud:
[Sgt. Shipway's] dedication was apparent when he helped save a fellow soldier's life during a roadside bomb attack in 2006.

Brig. Gen. Denis Thompson about an incident where Sgt. Shipway showed strong leadership and was cited for his quick reaction:
"At that time, he disregarded the danger to himself, secured the area of the blast and began treating the casualties, including one who had lost both his legs,"

"Using the radio he got direction from the chief surgeon and was able to stop the bleeding, thereby saving that soldier's life.

"He always gave you an honest answer, whether you wanted it or not,"

Canada has lost a unique individual ... a leader of warriors.

We will not forget.

3 More

2008-09-04T11:51:00.000-07:00

Pte. Chadwick James Horn
Cpl. Michael James Alexander Seggie
Cpl. Andrew Paul Grenon

I'll let Cpl. Andrew Paul Grenon speak for all three of these, our heroes:
"I've often asked myself why we are here. Why my government actually agreed to send troops to this God-forsaken place.

"There are no natural resources. No oil, gold, or silver. Just people.

"People who have been at war for the last 40 plus years. People who want nothing more than their children to be safe. People who will do anything for money; even give their own life.

"I look into the eyes of these people. I see hate, destruction and depression. I see love, warmth, kindness and appreciation.

"Why do we fight? For in this country, there are monsters. Monsters we could easily fight on a different battlefield, at a different time. Monsters that could easily take the fight to us.

"Surrounding these mud walls and huts is a country in turmoil. A country that is unable to rebuild itself. A country that cannot guarantee a bright future for its youth.

"Why do we fight? Because, if we don't fight today, on THIS battlefield, then our children will be forced to face these monsters on our own battlefield.

"I fight because I'm a soldier.

"I fight because I'm ordered.

"I fight, so my children won't have to."

~ Cpl. Andrew Paul Grenon

"Are we not doing it for the kids?"

2008-08-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

Since we started Canadian Heroes, I've written a lot of posts about the soldiers we've lost. Each time I did so, I wrote about someone I didn't know personally. This time will be a bit different.

We just lost three more soldiers. One of those men and I crossed paths when he was a bright eyed and incredibly precocious small boy. He attended the school where I taught.

I remember Dustin Wasden as a very sharp, very active, very lovable boy. He was one of those little guys who'd get into trouble sometimes simply because he was so much on the go ... I remember staff members laughing over what Dustin may have said, or done. I remember clearly the keen mind and burning curiosity of the little red headed boy from a Saskatchewan farm.

And now Dustin, is no longer with us.

The three we just lost, Sgt. Shawn Allen Eade, Cpl. Dustin Roy Robert Joseph Wasden, and Sapper Stephan John Stock, were all little boys not that long ago. They were the hope of their generation ... but of course, they didn't know it at the time. Yet, they did grow up to rise above the narrow self-interest that drives most of our lives. They left behind loved ones, comforts, and safety, to risk their lives in helping Afghan children, the hope of Afghanistan.

We hear this more and more from our soldiers ... that the mission is about far more than preventing another 911; that it's about giving Afghans a fighting chance in a region that has seen decades of barbarism. We see and hear the conviction of our soldiers, who no sooner lose their team mates, than they go right back out and do it all over again. Their dedication humbles us all and their commitment to the children of Afghanistan is enspiring.

In the end, I have to give Cpl. Dustin Roy Robert Joseph Wasden the last word ... as he expressed it to relatives and fellow warriors:
"Are we not doing it for the kids?" he’d say.

Yes you were Dustin ... you were doing it for the Afghan kids; and because you were, you were also doing it for all of us.

Thank you, Dustin .... thank you, gentlemen.

Master Cpl. Erin Doyle

2008-08-12T14:48:00.000-07:00

“We have become too civilized to grasp the obvious. For the truth is very simple. To survive you often have to fight, and to fight you have to dirty yourself. War is evil, and it is often the lesser evil. Those who take the sword perish by the sword...”

-George Orwell

When I read that Master Cpl. Erin Doyle was on his third tour in Afghanistan, I was struck by the realization that he, and all those who serve, are in the minority among us who fully grasp the words of George Orwell ... that "to survive you have to fight".

While the vast majority of us were going about our business, which in most cases amounts to enjoying the bounty of our home, Canada, Master Cpl. Doyle was toiling away trying to preserve the fragile democracy of Afghanistan ... and he lost his life doing so. While we slept in cozy beds, earned livings that ordinary Afghans could only dream of, and while we complained about the most mundane things, he gave his all (literally), to assist some of the world's lowliest people.

George Orwell understood in stark terms that defending what we have ... and defending even what little others have, can be ugly work. It takes giants of men to do the dirty work ... they willingly go where their lives can be lost in a twinkle ... where the last thing they may see is a foreign land completely devoid of the civilized pleasures and softness that is our Canada. Yet they go ... in fact, they line up to await their turn in numbers so large that the mission can't accommodate them all.

Any wonder then, that we call them heroes.

Master Cpl. Erin Doyle ... thank you.

Master Cpl. Josh Roberts

2008-08-10T09:20:00.000-07:00

From friends and brothers in arms:
"He was the kind guy that we would describe as the soldier's soldier," said the battle group commander, Lt.-Col. Dave Corbould. "And I know that's a coined phrase but in fact he was one of those real guys, always carrying his share, and more, and always looking out for his buddies and comrades."

"Truth, honour and loyalty were not mere words to Josh but the unspoken creed which he lived his life by," said Capt. Darren Persaud. "Josh would be there for his friends at any time, to lend a hand or to give them honest advice. Sometimes it was not the advice they wanted to hear, but it was always the advice they needed."

"His best friend describes him as a no-nonsense kind of guy who lived like people dreamed; he was a fun-loving and genuine individual who was totally dedicated to the Army and held his section together. He looked out for his guys in ways they probably didn't realize," Brig.-Gen. Dennis Thompson.

Capt. Scott MacGregor, acting C Company commander, described Roberts as a "bang-on-guy, a soldier's soldier. No matter where he worked or who he worked with, he just fit in well with everybody," he said.

"He was a real soldier, very good at it, just a skilled and qualified soldier. I had a lot of respect for him, and this is a real tragedy," Lacoursiere said.

Master Cpl. Josh Roberts left behind a fiance who was 8 months pregnant, making his sacrifice all the more difficult to bear. The following comment was left on his facebook site:
"Rest in Peace Josh! I have never seen my friend happier than since she's been with you! I'll take care of your little boy for you!!"

So it is that we mourn Master Cpl Josh Roberts ... but we also remember to never pity him. Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan are living out their dream ... they are doing the job they've chosen for themselves ... they are volunteers.

Justin Rings, who served with Roberts in Saskatchewan puts it best:
"He loved soldiering. Some people are calling it a tragedy, but he died doing what he loved, so that's not a tragedy."

Cpl. James Hayward Arnal

2008-07-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

I'm never quite sure that most people understand just how dedicated and committed to the mission in Afghanistan Canadian soldiers are. Often, when new acquaintances find out my son is in the Canadian Forces, they can't help but ask ... "Is he going over there!" Many can't even spit out the word "Afghanistan". When I tell them that he is slated to go soon, they get this panicked expression ... and then, after an awkward silence ask, "How do you feel about it?" When I explain that my son is excited to be going, and that all of his fellow troop mates feel the same way, the person I am speaking with usually recoils ... or expresses amazement.

What is it that makes so many Canadians view our soldiers as victims ... as pawns who are sacrificed on some sort of alter of national ambition ... when frankly ... they aren't. Each and every one is a volunteer. They join the military as volunteers, and I doubt a single one of them would be forced to go if they expressed grave reservation. What we call a VR (voluntary release) from service is incredibly easy in the Canadian Forces ... with little fuss ... and little muss. What that means, is that our people going "over there" are where they choose to be.

Cpl. James Hayward Arnal had a promising career outside the military. He was going places. Not only that, we have anecdotal evidence that his life was full of adventure. Yet, Cpl. James Hayward Arnal joined the Canadian Forces ... and he joined a branch of the military that virtually guaranteed he'd be going to "that place".

Our heroes never cease to amaze me. They are volunteers for a variety of reasons, but none ... not one ... is a victim. They leave us behind, they leave security and loved ones, and they willingly enter what can best be called an ugly confrontation with evil.

So, we honour Cpl. James Hayward Arnal and we feel lucky to know just a tiny little bit of him through his sacrifice. We will not forget.

CTV

Cpl. Brendan Anthony Downey

2008-07-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

It is often forgotten that the Afghan mission requires a long logistics train which involves thousands of soldiers who never see Afghanistan, but who nevertheless put their shoulder to the load. They serve not only in Canada, but on bases elsewhere.

Recently we lost Cpl. Brendan Anthony Downey at one of the bases that offers logistics to the Afghan mission. It's interesting that he joined the Canadian Forces in response to 911. He joined specifically to assist Canada in the War against Islamic terrorism ... a direct extention of which is the mission in Afghanistan. We don't know the circumstances of his death, and we won't speculate. What matters to us is that he was doing the work his country asked of him to do ...yet, he was a volunteer:
His family described him as a "committed patriot" who joined the military in response to the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. They also said in a release Sunday that he was overjoyed to hear of his wife's recently confirmed pregnancy and will be sorely missed by his family and friends.

Pte. Colin William Wilmot

2008-07-07T18:22:00.000-07:00

There are a minority of people in society who do not understand, nor appreciate, the fact that our soldiers serving in Afghanistan are volunteers. "Volunteers" means that they have willingly stepped up and asked to go to Afghanistan.

My son is slated to go in February. At this moment in time his unit is full of some very disgruntled young men. Why? Because they are not on the list of those going. Virtually every single member of my son's unit wants in ... for whatever reason ... they want to be players in one of Canada's most noble moments.

Pte. Colin William Wilmot did not have to die in Afghanistan. He was not slated to go. He was not one of the chosen.

Yet, Colin asked ... almost demanded, that he be permitted to lend his shoulder to the load.

From CTV:
Wilmot was with 1 Field Ambulance of 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group, based in Edmonton. He had not been scheduled to join the current rotation in Afghanistan but he had demanded to be sent.

"He quickly marched in to see his regiment sergeant-major to indicate he was eager to serve,'' said Brig.-Gen. Denis Thompson, Canada's top soldier in Afghanistan.

"Colin wanted it known that should a spot become available on the mission, he wanted in. "He was selected to fill a vacancy soon after, because he was motivated, he was skilled, and because he was eager to make a difference in the lives of ordinary Afghans.''

Colin ... you are a Canadan son to be proud of ... we will never forget you.

The Journey Home

2008-06-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

Capt. Jonathan Sutherland Snyder

2008-06-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

A week ago we talked about leadership, in memory of Captain Richard (Steve) Leary. Today, we again mourn the loss of a leader.

Capt. Jonathan Sutherland Snyder perished in Afghanistan in what can best be described as a freak accident. News reports leave us with disturbing images of a fall down a deep well in the dark of night, the frantic efforts of comrades, but tragedy in the end.

The heart rending part is that those who had depended on Capt. Snyder's leadership to keep them safe in the past, couldn't ,despite their frantic efforts, save his life.

Col. Jean-Francois Riffou gives us some measure of the man:
"Capt. Snyder will leave an indelible mark on this unit and I'm sure on the Afghan National Army ... He was a professional. He was quiet. He was always looking out for his men. And he was always looking out for the Afghan soldiers and taking all means available to see that they improved ... Because of his heroic leadership under intense fire, there are many Canadians and Afghans who are alive to fight tomorrow."
We are also left with a further glimpse of Capt. Snyder from a brief statement of his, shared by his mother:

"If anything ever happens mom, don't feel badly for me, I'm where I'm supposed to be ... "

So, once again, we are reminded how stunningly matter of fact and courageous our heroes are. Never forget them ... but never pity them ... they were, each and everyone, where they wanted to be.

For Capt. Jonathan Sutherland Snyder.

Capt. Richard (Steve) Leary

2008-06-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest burdens that can be placed on a man, is to ask him to lead men into battle. The leader must often make life and death decisions on the spot; decisions that may later come to haunt him. There is always a better way of doing things, and a great leader is never satisfied that he’s done the best he could. Once the shooting is over, he must live with the decisions he’s made, and often carry the burden of men lost. Few civilians, and even soldiers, grasp the enormous burden placed on leaders of fighting men.

Captain Richard (Steve) Leary was one of the leaders. He died while directing his soldiers in combat.

CTV:

"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.

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.

Cpl. Michael Starker

2008-05-08T19:50:00.000-07:00

Cpl. Michael Starker was a medic. He died while extending a hand to Afghans. He died while touching the lives of Afghans in the most giving way possible.

But, Cpl. Michael Starker did much more ... he died while on a mission that he was not bound by duty to partake in, because Cpl. Michael Starker was a reservist. What that means is that he had to go out of his way to volunteer for service in Afghanistan. He had to make the decision to leave his home and family behind, and enter an incredibly dangerous environment that he knew perfectly well might claim his life. And in the end, it did.

Many in Canada can be forgiven if they fail to comprehend, or even recoil, from individuals like Cpl. Michael Starker. What, with the whole culture driven by a decadent focus on self, it's small wonder that the Michael Starkers of this world sometimes seem like aliens. But that is precisely why we honor them and set them apart. They are true Canadian heroes.

The best we can do for them and their loved ones, is to promise to never forget.

Canadian Heroes Tribute

2008-04-26T21:21:00.001-07:00

Why

2008-04-23T18:54:00.001-07:00

Another Family Mourns

2008-04-04T17:49:00.000-07:00

Pte. Terry John Street:

And there you have it, another Canadian family loses a cherished member and the greater military family at Shilo takes another hit.

I've written so much on these pages about our lost heroes. Every time, I wonder what I'd say if it was my own son who'd been killed. He'll be in Afghanistan within a year if things don't change, so I will soon become one of the waiting parents ... hoping that men in uniform don't show up at my door.

I know that that's what happened with Pte. Streets family ... and I know that they've now been plunged into some of their darkest days ... and most of us can't even be there to comfort them.

If Pte. Street was anything like my son, I know that he was doing exactly what he wanted to do. I know that he was in Afghanistan for his mates ... for his country ... for Afghans ... and for himself. I know, that he had no misconceptions of the risks he was taking. Other than that, I know little of him.

Yet, from the tiny bit I know, he is my hero now ... as he should be yours. He's joined the thousands of Canadian soldiers who have sacrificed for freedom.

In a day and age when certain elements in our society would diminish Pte. Street's sacrifice, or use it for petty political ends ... it is our duty to hold our heroes high.

So, on these pages we honour Pte. Terry John Street and we will never forget his heroism.

Star of Military Valour

2008-03-27T10:47:00.000-07:00

Sgt. Jason Boyes

2008-03-17T16:16:00.000-07:00

Shilo has had more than its share of sorrow.

I visited my son there last summer when the workup for Afghanistan was underway. The yellow ribbons stretching down the highway were telling ... telling of a community that had seen its share of sacrifice ... and now Shilo has lost another.

Sgt. Jason Boyes was from Shilo, and he was part of the "pointy end" ... that very small group of soldiers who inject their very bodies into the landscape of Afghanistan. Speaking from experience, I know he would've been envied and looked up to by those who wanted to, but never got the privilege, of walking the trails of Afghanistan. Sgt. Boyes would've been incredibly proud of his good fortune to serve in this way and he would've considered himself lucky.

Yet, many, if not most, of Canadians would wonder at the fact that there are men and women in our midst who count such dangerous assignments a privilege. Some even recoil at the thought, perhaps because it makes their own lives seem so mundane or self-centered. Whatever the case, Sgt. Jason Boyes was cut from a different cloth than most ... simply because he was a volunteer for dangerous things.

So, we add Sgt. Jason Boyes to our list of heroes ... we will never forget him ... we will offer our condolences to his family and loved ones ... but we will never pity him. To do so, would be to destroy what he stood for and to cast doubt on his cause. After all, Sgt. Jason Boyes' cause is ours.

More from CTV

Bombardier Jeremie Ouellet

2008-03-14T21:06:00.000-07:00

At the time of this writing, the death of Bombardier Jeremie Quellet was shrouded in secrecy. What we know, is that he was serving us in Afghanistan, where he lost his life.

Here are the words of Maj. Pierre Bergeron:

"There are deaths that are easier than others to understand and accept; then there are deaths that leave us with many questions, and this may be the case for some of us," he said.

"But today is not the day for questions and answers, but rather a time to grieve with each other and to let the family know that we care and share their loss."

What I'm reminded of, is the fact that our heroes bring all of their hopes, fears, and difficulties with them when they serve in Afghanistan. It's not as if life's regular problems cease ... and many must deal with the loves and anxieties that follow them all the way to the war zone. It is this fact, that makes our men and women all the more heroic.

Bombardier Ouellet, we thank you for your service and like those who have passed before you ... we will never forget you.

Trooper Michael Y. Hayakaze

2008-03-05T14:00:00.000-08:00

With his tour just about complete, Trooper Michael Y. Hayakaze must've been looking forward to being home.

Like all soldiers, he felt those last days getting longer ... and no doubt the tension growing. It's inevitable as the days of the tour run out ... as that long flight out is just around the corner.

Trooper Michael Y. Hayakaze won't be coming home. He was our 79th casualty and now his family must pick up the pieces.

Let's never forget what it takes to be a soldier on tour in Afghanistan. Trooper Michael Y. Hayakaze was doing the job he chose ... he was experiencing life to its fullest. Very few of us have the courage, or the opportunity, to see danger over the next hill ... then run to it. Only in our imaginations can we guess if we'd have what it takes to persevere. Few of us ever have the chance to protect the innocent by pursuing the guilty.

Finally, let's be reminded to never pity our soldier heroes, as nothing could be more insulting. Honour them, never forget them, and stand up for them here at home.

Last Journey Home

2008-02-09T20:48:00.000-08:00

Sapper Etienne Gonthier

2008-01-24T14:10:00.000-08:00

While the country gets ready to extend the mission to Afghanistan, the mission ends tragically for yet another Canadian and his family.

Sapper Etienne Gonthier was killed by a road side bomb ... the same way that most of our heroes are being killed at this point in the conflict. Can we expect more? Of course. Will they quit volunteering ... of course not?

That's what sets them apart from us ... while most recoil or flee ... our heroes rush in.

We remember Etienne Gonthier and his family, but, we ask that you never pity Sapper Etienne Gonthier ... he was doing what he wanted to do, he was living the life "he" chose ... and that was a life of risks in order to bring liberty to a suffering world.

Thank you Etienne.

The Long Road Ahead

2008-01-15T17:58:00.000-08:00

The battle for Afghanistan has taken its inevitable path ... the enemy has not been able to defeat us face to face, so now he will use hidden explosive devices to peck away at our will. Canadians will die as a result, and the more they get out and about and improve the lives of Afghans, the more they will be exposed.

One would think that the IED war would dissuade Canuck warriors, that they'd recoil from a fight where they often can't even shoot back. Yet, that's not the case.

My son who is in the CF reports to me that those wishing to get over to Afghanistan far outnumber those who will actually serve there. Canadian soldiers are lined up waiting for their turn ... waiting to do their part.

So it is that we face once again the death of one of our best. Like the others, he was doing the job he wanted to do ... he was exactly where he wanted to be ... he was a volunteer:
A 26-year-old Canadian soldier was killed in southern Afghanistan on Tuesday when his Coyote armoured vehicle struck a roadside bomb. One other soldier was injured in the blast.Trooper Richard Renaud, of Alma, Que., died in the attack at about 7:15 a.m. local time.

I want to remind our readers that there are two things that soldiers detest ... perhaps more than anything else ... and that is to be treated as either victims or felons.

So let's never lose sight of this ... let us honour them ... remember them ... support them ... but never pitty them or recoil from them. They are doing the very dirty work of maintaining a civilized world, and sometimes it costs them their all.

But, they go in with eyes wide open as true volunteers; no wonder then that we honour them.

Freedom and Sacrifice

2008-01-08T09:48:00.001-08:00

Classic quotes from those who knew freedom, sacrifice, and the unavoidable union of the two.

“Be convinced that to be happy means to be free and that to be free means to be brave. Therefore do not take lightly the perils of war.”

“The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet notwithstanding, go out to meet it.”

Thucydides(460-404 BC) – Pioneering Athenian historian and general

"The whole earth is the tomb of heroic men and their story is not given only on stone over their clay but abides everywhere without visible symbol woven into the stuff of other mens lives.”

“Freedom is the sure possession of those alone who have the courage to defend it.”

Pericles(495-429 BC) – Statesman and general of Athens

"The valiant profit more their country than the finest, cleverest speakers."

"Courage is what preserves our liberty, safety, life, and our homes and parents, our country and children. Courage comprises all things.”

Titus Maccius Plautus(254-184 BC) – Playwright and soldier of the Roman Republic

"A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both."

"History does not long entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid."

Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower(1890-1969) – Former President of the United States and general

“I knew why I felt at home. The spirit of freedom was hovering over that play yard as it did all over France at that time. A country was free again.”

Audie Murphy(1921-1974) – American soldier (WWII) and actor

Two More

2008-01-07T19:20:00.000-08:00

We often forget that many Canadians have lost their lives in Afghanistan in accidents.

Military operations are fraught with danger, especially when equipment is forced to negotiate rough terrain. In this case we lost two more heroes who were simply doing our bidding and representing us in what often must seem like a god-forsaken land.

Yet, they have brought hope and half a chance to some of the poorest people on this planet.

Rest in peace, Cpl. Eric Labbe and Warrant Officer Hani Massouh.

Gunner Jonathan Dion

2007-12-30T14:57:00.000-08:00

"We will not forget the sacrifice made by Gunner Dion while working to make life better for others," Harper said in a statement released Sunday.

"These Canadian soldiers were working to provide security and help create the conditions needed to improve the lives of the people of Afghanistan."

More

Christie Blatchford: Reinventing the Canadian Soldier

2007-11-20T14:55:00.000-08:00

Christie Blatchford, is a Canadian journalist who has spent a lot of time nosing about Afghanistan in the company of Canadian warriors. After hours in the heat and dust with the sweaty and cursing soldiers who call themselves the PPCLI (Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry), Christie wrote a book called Fifteen Days.

“What's the big deal?”, you may think; well, it is a big deal.

It’s been a long time, decades in fact, since Canadians have been involved in what are called offensive military operations … that’s the hunting down and killing or capturing of bad guy by the way. An entire generation or two, of Canadians have no idea what it’s like to send men to war and have some return in caskets. An entire generation or two, of Canadians have grown up thinking that only Americans go to war, and that Canadians by and large aren’t a warrior people. An entire generation or two, of Canadians can’t comprehend Canadians hunting down and killing enemies.

Christie Blatchford sets the record straight in what can best be described as a blunt, in your face, description of Canadians at War in Afghanistan. And, she’s done it only as a woman could. Let me explain.

Were a man to write the story, he would be sure to lay out in geographic and technical terms a global view of the stratagems involved. Then, he’d describe, once again in geographical and technical terms, the battles, peppered with firsthand accounts in what we call “anecdotal” tales. It’s the way military history is written … it’s the way most writers do it … it’s the rule.

Christie doesn’t do that … she just lays out what she’s been told … often with spotty technical detail, often with crude or hardly comprehendible geographic detail, but with exquisite human substance. She tells it like she heard it … she tells it like they’ve told it to her … and she does it without deleting the “fucks” or tears or ugliness. What you end up with is an accurate, yet sometimes schizophrenic account of what our people have gone through and accomplished.

Christie’s book sets out what soldiers are like … and what it’s like to love soldiers.

Warriors aren’t pretty, they aren’t boy scouts … in fact, they are more like rig-pigs with a brutal job to do and supported by a cast of often nervous handwringing loved ones. Christie delivers a wonderfully unfiltered version of 15 days in the Afghan heat with some of the toughest Canucks walking the earth.

Fifteen Days will become a key contribution to Canadian history. It will become a key work in revealing to Canadians how extraordinary … yet ordinary … our warriors are. It will become a key work in revealing how un-heroic … yet heroic, military families are.

As a supporter of Canadian involvement in Afghanistan I’ve got to get my shot in, so here it is.

I dare anyone to read Fifteen Days, then stand before Canadian warriors who have been there, or stand before their families, and tell them that Canada is wrong-headed in its involvement with Afghanistan … tell them that their services would best be served on the Golan, or in Cypress, or garrisoned here at home. I dare you.

Fifteen Days, by Christie Blatchford, read it.

Two Canadians Fall

2007-11-17T12:30:00.000-08:00

Cpl. Nicolas Raymond Beauchamp and Pte. Michel Levesque perished in a roadside bomb attack in Afghanistan today. Like all the others who have died in this conflict, they were volunteers and no doubt were where they wanted to be. While the majority of people run from a fight, Canadian soldiers run to the sound of the guns. They willingly inject themselves into one of the most hostile places on earth. They do it for a variety of reasons, one of which is a desire to make a positive difference in the world. Those who serve in Quebec do so with an extra burden ... they volunteer with the full knowledge that the vast majority of Quebecors do not support them in the mission and that they toil on in Afghanistan with the support of only a minority of the their fellow Quebecers.

These are truly heroes ... who are grossly misunderstood and unappreciated back home.

CTV has more.

Cpl. Nathan Hornburg

2007-09-26T17:55:00.000-07:00

Cpl. Nathan Hornburg, a reservist with the King's Own Calgary Regiment became the 71st Canadian soldier to die in Afghanistan Monday as he tried to put a track back on a Leopard tank while under fire.

Here is a statement from his family in Calgary and southern Alberta:
Our Son and Brother, Nathan Hornburg, represented the best of all of us. He represented what all Canadians should strive to be.

As a boy, he was happy growing up in the neighbourhood of Glamorgan in Calgary, and was greatly influenced by the Calgary Waldorf School philosophy of rhythm, reverence, and ritual. But as much as he loved growing up in Calgary, he also loved the land, and was often found spending time with his extended family in Nanton, Alberta, a place to which he felt deeply connected, and in which he became a son to a second community.

Nathan approached life with enthusiasm. As a young man, he never failed to express a strong sense of fair play, leadership, and curiosity. He was well respected by all who knew him, because he was a true friend, always finding the positive in any situation, always offering his strength when the strength of others was failing. In a way, he was the rock people knew they could depend on, that we knew we could depend on. Nathan was his father's best friend, and the best son and brother a person could be.

Continue Reading ...

Canadian Soldier

2007-09-12T09:41:00.001-07:00

Canadian Soldier

by: Sgt. M.J. Watts

Do not cry for me,
For I am a Canadian soldier.
Guardian of “The True, North, strong and free”,
Ambassador of the “Red Maple Leaf”.

I know that, what I had of freedom,
All I used or knew,
Is what our father’s
Fought for us long ago.

I did not give
That freedom away or,
Have someone take it away
By force or law.

You hold in your hands
The most precious of gifts.
Freedom to love and express art.
Freedom to be who you want to be.

Freedom is a package deal.
With it comes responsibilities and consequences.
The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.
Do not make our sacrifice, one in vain.

I join God knowing,
I fought for my fellow man’s freedom.
My duty complete,
Yours to carry on in memory.

For now my mother is crying,
And criticism of our mission arises.
Question not, but always remember,
For I am a Canadian soldier.

Mercier ; Duchesne

2007-08-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

Master Cpl. Christian Duchesne and Master Warrant Officer Mario Mercier believed in the mission ... they believed that cilization doesn't come cheap ... that it can't be bought or purchased with rhetoric. They gave their lives for Canadians and Afghans while living what they believed.

In late 2005, blogger and CF member Andrew put into words why civilization so desperately needs men like Master Cpl. Duchesne and Master Warrant Officer Mercier:

The Canadian Forces will most likely not reach their recruitment goals this year. Currently, the forces aren’t facing attrition, but any plans to expand seem impossible at the moment. Unless Canadians in general have a dramatic change of heart, force expansion just isn’t in the cards because not enough people are signing up. At the same time, our small Armed Forces, which are still under-equipped in many areas, face numerous growing challenges.

In Afghanistan, the going is tough, and sure to get tougher. With Islamists just across the boarder posturing and posing and giving every inclination that they want a war, things could yet get very much worse. With funds from Iran and Pakistan available to fanatics, the risk to Canadians is not going away any time soon. A democratic Afghanistan needs our help to shake off its local fanatics, yet global events threaten to engulf the comparatively minor happenstance of tribal Afghanistan and turn it into something much bigger, and much bloodier.

All of this raises the question; what are you willing to give for the cause? Is the cause worth it? Is any cause worth it? Hell, do you even believe in "the cause?" Are you in the 18-30 bracket and have you ever honestly considered joining the military? Would that be too much sacrifice for you? Try this then; what government handouts or percent of your paycheck are you willing to part with in order to ensure that those who fight in your name do so with the deadliest and best possible weapons and equipment in hand? These questions may seem obvious, but I can’t help but feel that few have taken the time to seriously ponder them.

In a recent speech, the incisive Victor Davis Hanson noted that empires do not often fall from squalor, rather they succumb in moments of greatness. He cited Rome as an example, and a prime example it is.

Having weathered a Gallic invasion and re-asserted itself in Italy, Post-Etruscan Rome faced its greatest military adversary, Hannibal, in the second Punic War. As a General, Hannibal was brilliant. While several times fought to a draw, Hannibal succeeded in wiping out numerous Roman armies. Indeed, throughout his long career in warfare, Hannibal suffered only one decisive defeat, but it was that defeat that made the difference. While the strategy and tactics of the battles and war can be minutely discussed, the one vital attribute and advantage that carried the Romans to victory was the same determination that carried them to that final battle with Hannibal, and to every battle preceding it.

Again and again Hannibal proved his dominance on the battlefield by encircling and wiping out entire Roman armies. And again and again, the Romans would rally, reform their armies, and march back to war. The Etruscan-style military organization which the Romans used at the time may seem counterintuitive to us in our modern age. Every male Roman citizen was required to serve, provide his own armor and equipment, and put his life on the line. Truly, it was all for one, and the Romans refused to let defeat on the battlefield translate to defeat in war. At war's end, the Romans had lost nearly every battle and countless lives, but their determination had won the final battle, and the war.

Several centuries later the little city state of Rome had, with that same perseverance, carved out an enormous empire. And yet, the determination of the Romans themselves began to falter. It is said that eventually the great majority of the Roman army wasn’t composed of Romans at all. While the “true Romans” sat in their supreme opulence in Rome and Constantinople, the empire was picked apart by minor barbarian kings; a wide array of relative nobodies compared to Hannibal. By the time of Attila, who was still comparatively a lightweight, the Romans quickly reverted to bribery and appeasement. In the end, the accessions were always proceeded by war, war that the Romans were unwilling to see through.

The parallels to be drawn are obvious. Western civilization has reached levels of wealth and affluence unsurpassed anywhere in history. Yet in our “progressive”
magnificence, we may have lost our will to fight for what we hold dear. To be sure, the pursuit of peace is a most noble undertaking, yet we are often too quick to forget that beyond our boarders are more than a few modern day barbarians who share none of our enlightened outlook. Through training and technology, our soldiers may reign supreme on the battlefield, but our civilization on the whole may have grown vulnerable in its affluence, opulence, progressiveness, and humanistic enlightenment. Cruder, more blunt forces unhindered by these, may now hold the advantage. Through a shortsighted lens it may be difficult, nay impossible, to imagine the fall of our own civilization, yet history's precedent says that it is all too likely.
Which brings us back to the beginning. In a time of urgent crisis what would you give? What’s worth fighting for?
by: Junker

Pte. Simon Longtin

2007-08-19T11:17:00.000-07:00

Simon Longtin, 23-year-old private from the Montreal area, was with the Royal 22nd Regiment, the Quebec-based Van Doos.

Longtin is the first member of the regiment to die in Afghanistan and the 67th Canadian military casualty overall since 2002.

From TheStar.com
"If one thing came out of their conversations with him, it is that he was very proud to be with his colleagues in Afghanistan," McLean said. "He died doing what he loved."

A Mother's Statement

2007-07-16T16:53:00.000-07:00

Wanda Watkins:
"We don't want any family to experience the terrible pain of losing their son or daughter, but if Canada and NATO abandon the Afghan people, the sacrifices Lane, our family and others have made will be for nothing,'' Watkins said Monday.

"They deserve your respect. In supporting them, you'll make our loss much easier to bear.''

[...]

"But you become a whole lot more attentive when your child is being deployed. We've come to know many of Lane's instructors and military friends and they are the finest young men that you will ever meet,'' she said.

"Every Canadian should be extremely proud of our soldiers. They're well-trained and we can trust them.''

CLICK

The July 4th Six

2007-07-06T20:26:00.000-07:00

Nation building in Afghanistan has turned into a battle of will. After last summer, the enemy has learned that facing Canadians in head-on combat is futile. Canucks are simply better equipped, better trained, and more determined. The enemy knows that direct confrontation is useless and spells defeat each time.

So now we will have to deal with a coward’s war ... one where terrorists bomb civilians, p0lice, and soldiers alike ... randomly and indiscriminately. The result for our heroes in Afghanistan will be increased stress as they go about their difficult and complex tasks.

The July 4th Six paid the ultimate price for daring to reshape an emerging nation. They paid the ultimate price for daring to face down a 1400 year old barbarism that threatens to reach far beyond Afghanistan to our very land. They died doing the work that even most of their NATO allies won't do ... and for that we are humbled and forever in debt.

There are very few individuals these days who are willing to set aside our decadent Western lifestyle to go and serve in the dust and danger of far off lands ... most of us are simply too concerned with petty day to day accumulation of pleasure and toys. These six though, were not like us ... they were willing to risk it all, day after day, to bring hope to Afghans and security to us.

Capt. Matt Dawe, Capt. Jefferson Francis, Master Cpl. Colin Bason, Cpl. Jordan Anderson, Cpl. Cole Bartsch and Pte. Lane Watkins are owed our deepest gratitude, and we willingly give it. Today they began the long sad journey home.

Bouzane; Wiebe; Karigiannis

2007-06-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

Cpl. Stephen Frederick , 26; Pte. Joel Vincent , 22; and Sgt. Christos died when their ATV was struck by what appears to have been an improvised explosive device. Their death is unique in that they perished while driving a domestic style ATV. This fact, points to how spectacularily successful the Canadian push in the Kandahar region has been. Just last summer this very same area was crawling with Taliban thugs; today our guys can move between FOBs and Outposts on ATVs.

While we can expect the occasional attack such as that which killed these heroes, let's not forget that Canucks in the region are now focused on training their eventual Afghan replacements and on helping the local civilians. It takes a special human to go about an area such as this on ATV or even foot ... back in one's mind is always the understanding that Taliban hanger's-on can strike ... but going about in Armoured vehicles does little to normalize the lives of the locals. At some point our guys have to join in with the Afghan men, women, and children, and be exposed. That's what Canuck heroes do ... that's how you build new countries from scratch ... that's why we are winning.

Let's remember and honour these men by keeping faith in their mission and by never forgetting that conflicts of this sort are more a battle of will than of body-counts.

The Families Speak
"Every since he was a little kid, Joel has said 'I want to be in the army'," Anna Thede told reporters Friday in Edmonton. "There was never any doubt, this job is what Joel chose, this is the job that Joel wanted and he was very proud to be a part of this."

Trooper Darryl Caswell

2007-06-13T14:41:00.000-07:00

Soldiers in the combat arms of the Canadian Forces are incredibly proud of their trades, and they wear titles like "trooper" with great enthusiasm. More often than not, it is these individuals who are at the "pointy end" of operations in Afghanistan, and who suffer the greatest number of deaths and injuries.

Once again a member of the Canadian Combat Arms has paid the ultimate price for having the privilege of being "outside the wire". There is no doubt that Trooper Darryl Caswell understood perfectly the risks his trade brought him, and like all those in the combat arms, he accepted them. Like one Canadian Soldier once said, "Part of you wants it ... part of you doesn't". These guys are heroes ... adventurers ... and a rare breed of men who put comrads, the mission, and even Afghans, ahead of themselves.

So it is that another Canadian family grieves, but once again it grieves knowing full well that the loved one lost was doing exactly what he wanted to be doing. In other words, he died pursuing that which he loved; and Canada is grateful.

And, in a strange sort of way, he was among the few so privileged to choose indirectly their way of passing. You see, Trooper Darryl Caswell volunteered to be on dangers path ... and in this way he had more control over the way of his passing than most of us whose end is usually a matter of happenstance.

Trooper Darryl Caswell ... Canadian Hero.

Master Cpl. Darrell Jason Priede

2007-06-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

One of the most thrilling and interesting jobs in any military is that of combat photographer. The job takes the photographer to an incredible number of places and inserts him or her into a great variety of situations. Combat photography in the military in critical in creating a visual record of all that the Canadian Forces do.

Master Cpl. Darrell Jason Priede was a Combat Photographer, doing his job ... a job he loved, when the helicopter he was in went down taking his life along with the lives of his comrades in arms from several other countries.

Thank You Master Cpl. Priede ... your work will last forever and will become part of the historic culture of the Canadian Forces. Your risks will pay dividends for future Canadians who can share in the historic record you helped produce.

More

Cpl. Matthew McCully

2007-05-25T14:31:00.000-07:00

Another Maple Leaf falls.

Cpl. McCully was engaged in operation Hoover and was mentoring Afghan troops so that they can defend their own country. Like so many Canadians before him, Cpl. McCully was assisting others in building a nation and in defending themselves from evil.

Thank You Sir!

A Snowbird Falls

2007-05-19T07:46:00.000-07:00

In memory of Capt. Shawn McCaughey, 31

From The Torch:

Missing man

Hush - The silence lingers still
White clouds brush the distant hill
The Snowbirds flown on silent wings
Far from earth bound, tugging strings.

Hush - There lies but one man sleeping
A date with his Maker he is keeping
Though once he raced across the sky, in flight
Radiant, as a star at night.

Hush - He was an airman bold
Who saw the sunset turning gold
Who soared with grace across this land
A brave man, in a brave man's band.

No more in danger shall he tread
No more the sunsets turning red
Though high above our prairie fleece
We know his soul will find its peace.

Hush - The Snowbird's taken flight
Into the great beyond of night
To join his comrades, in the wing
Which flies just for our Heavenly King.

- Peter Walt

Cpl. Benoit Chevalier

2007-05-08T17:56:00.000-07:00

No matter when, or where, or how, all of our soldiers are heroes.

Cpl. Benoit Chevalier died in the line of duty, serving Canada and trying to make the world a better place:
A plane crashed in a remote mountainous area of the Sinai desert yesterday, killing half of France's small contingent to a multinational peacekeeping force in Egypt as well as one Canadian peacekeeper.

The Department of National Defence in Ottawa identified the Canadian as Cpl. Benoit Chevalier, an air traffic controller from Three Wing Bagotville in Quebec.

Master Seaman Roxanne LaLonde

2007-04-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

Whether in uniform or not; whether in Afghanistan or not; whether in combat or not ... Canadian Forces heroes can be found anywhere, at any time, sacrificing so that others may live. In this case, Master Seaman Roxanne Lalonde gave her life, in vain, but she died doing what our heroes do:

Roxanne LaLonde was on her way home Saturday evening when she saw her friend, Kellie Galipeau, standing in the middle of the road waving her arms and screaming as her 15-year-old son was swept through the frigid waters of the Rideau River.

Without a second thought, she kicked off her sneakers and ran into the water, only to drown while trying to save Grant Galipeau.

That she would risk her life to try to save another didn't surprise her friends and family.

Details

Anthony Klumpenhower

2007-04-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

We pay our deepest respects to Anthony Klumpenhower; a special forces Canadian who lost his life in the line of duty in Afghanistan.

Anthony was part of the dark ops, that brand of soldiering that operates in the shadows; often in conditions so secret that the heroism of these men is never told.

Thank you Anthony!

Two More Maple Leafs Fall

2007-04-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

Trooper Patrick James Pentland

Master Cpl. Allan Stewart

Trooper Patrick James Pentland and Master Cpl. Allan Stewart were named as the latest Canadians to fall in Afghanistan.

We who watch it all unfold while tucked safely away in our homes can only marvel at their courage, dedication, and sacrifice.

Gentlemen ... Thank You!

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