The son of a serving Calgary Police Service member has been killed in action, while serving with the British Armed Force in Afghanistan.
The soldier, a British national, was killed in Helmand province, adjacent to Kandahar province, where Canadian Forces operate.
After receiving the news, CPS Chief Rick Hanson said the following:
"The son of one of our members was killed this weekend, while courageously serving his country.
"Twenty-year-old Samuel John Bassett, son of Constable Simon Bassett of District 1, was tragically killed on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, while bravely serving with the British Armed Forces in Afghanistan.
"Rifleman Bassett, from 1 Platoon, A Company, 4th Battalion, The Rifles, died in hospital as the result of injuries sustained following an Improvised Explosive Device explosion in the area of Sangin, Northern Helmand.
"He was serving as part of the 3 RIFLES Battle Group. The British Ministry of Defence reported that his platoon was conducting routine patrols in order to provide reassurance and security to the local population.
"Samuel was in Calgary this past summer to visit his father, prior to being deployed on his mission. He had the opportunity to accompany his father on a ridealong, who proudly introduced his son to other CPS members.
"Many of Simon’s colleagues were moved by the mutual pride between father and son, both of whom chose a life of service...
"As we recognize Remembrance Day this Wednesday, let us reflect on all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their countries.
"May those who have fallen in the name of service and duty remain in our hearts every day of the year."
The soldier's mother Coline Bassett said Sam was having the time of his life.
"Samuel was not only my son, but Samuel and his brother Jack are my best friends. Samuel was a real character, always the joker, he will be so, so missed and loved forever - our proud little soldier.
"During Samuel's last conversation with the Family he said he was 'having the time of his life' and even joked when he spoke to his Granddad whilst sitting on the roof watching the sun go down in Afghanistan, that he was also 'keeping his head down from the snipers.'"
