April 9, 2007

"My husband Jean-Daniel Lafond and I were filled with great sadness when we received news of the terrible tragedy that claimed the lives of six Canadian soldiers: Sergeant Donald Lucas, Corporal Brent D. Poland, Corporal Christopher Paul Stannix, Corporal Aaron E. Williams, Private David Robert Greenslade and Private Kevin Vincent Kennedy. Our thoughts also go out to the soldiers who were injured during this incident.

Exactly one month ago in Kandahar, I witnessed their immeasurable devotion, their sense of duty, their courage, and their steadfast determination to never back down from completing the dangerous mission with which they were tasked.

The Canadian women and men who are participating in the multilateral NATO effort to bring the peace and stability that are so crucial to Afghanistan’s development deserve our recognition and utmost admiration.

To the families and loved ones of the victims of this unexpected tragedy, know that this entire nation mourns your loss, and that our thoughts are always with you during this difficult time."

Michaëlle Jean

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Media information
Isabelle Serrurier
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-7280