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January 7, 2008
OTTAWA — My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of Warrant Officer Hani Massouh and of Corporal Éric Labbé, both from the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment, based out of Valcartier, during a tragic accident southwest of Kandahar City, in Afghanistan.
WO Massouh and Cpl Éric Labbé were killed when their Light Armoured Vehicle rolled over during a tactical move across difficult terrain. Both were taking part in Operation TENG AZEM (Steadfast Decision), a joint ISAF and Afghan National Security Forces operation aimed at disrupting insurgent activities in the region and at establishing a permanent coalition presence in the area.
With the New Year having just begun, this new tragedy reminds us of the perilous conditions our soldiers are facing in Afghanistan.
The deaths of soldiers Hani Massouh and Éric Labbé are another great loss. I salute their merit, their hard work and all the sacrifices they made so fearlessly.
On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to tell their families and friends, who are grieving today, that these men will not be forgotten.
Michaëlle Jean
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