June 3, 2008

OTTAWA—My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I have just learned of the death of Captain Richard (Steve) Leary of the Second Battalion of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Manitoba. We are saddened by this tragic news.

Captain Leary lost his life while on patrol in the Panjwayi District of Afghanistan. Like all of his colleagues, he believed profoundly in this mission and, as an officer, his first concern was to ensure the well-being of his platoon.

Each and every woman and man who volunteers to help rebuild Afghanistan is a source of inspiration and hope for the Afghan people. I commend Captain Leary for his hard work and the sacrifices he willingly made with courage and conviction.

On behalf of our entire country, we offer our sincerest condolences to his family, friends and comrades-in-arms. Our hearts and our thoughts are with them.

Michaëlle Jean

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Media information
Marie-Ève Létourneau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-0287
www.gg.ca
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