- Reaction score
- 3,950
- Points
- 1,260
.... from the GG/Commander-in-Chief:
....the Prime Minister....
.... and Canada's Minister of National Defence:
My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were very saddened to learn that a Canadian Forces soldier died when an improvised explosive device detonated during a dismounted night patrol 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar.
Private Kevin Thomas McKay was from the 1st Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry based in Edmonton, Alberta.
It is with utmost respect that we salute the commitment of Private McKay and of all members of the Canadian Forces who, with energy and determination, are putting their heart and soul into making the Afghan people’s dream of a better and secure life a reality. Let us pay tribute to this soldier who sacrificed his own life in the name of this ideal of justice and freedom. We will never forget him.
On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to his family, loved ones and fellow soldiers. We share their pain and sorrow.
....the Prime Minister....
“It is with deep sorrow that I extend my condolences, and those of all Canadians, to the family and friends of Private Kevin Thomas McKay, who died yesterday in Afghanistan as a result of wounds sustained from an improvised explosive device. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time of loss.
"Private Kevin Thomas McKay was part of an international coalition working to bring peace and security to this troubled country. Canadians are forever proud and grateful for his service and for the contributions of all our men and women in uniform to this UN-mandated, NATO-led mission.
"There are risks to our mission, but the brave men and women of the Canadian Forces are showing leadership, alongside our international partners, in standing up for something that is just: helping the Afghan people achieve peace and stability and rebuild their country and its institutions.
"I join with Canadians who stand proudly with the men and women of the Canadian Forces as they courageously risk their lives every day to bring peace and security to the people of Afghanistan. Private Kevin Thomas McKay served Canada valiantly, and deserves the gratitude and respect of his nation.”
.... and Canada's Minister of National Defence:
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of Private Kevin Thomas McKay. This brave soldier died yesterday in Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device detonated during a dismounted night patrol in the Panjwayi district, approximately 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City. My heartfelt condolences and prayers go to his family and friends. The Canadian Forces family mourns with you during this difficult time.
Canada is in Afghanistan at the request of the democratically elected Afghan government and is a partner in a United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission to bring peace and stability to the Afghan people.
The men and women of the Canadian Forces remain committed to the mission to help the Afghan people build a better future.
Pte McKay gave his life while proudly serving Canada and to bring back hope to a population that has seen hardship and turmoil. We are all saddened by this loss and will remain forever grateful.”