August 21, 2008

OTTAWA—As we continue to mourn and deplore the recent loss of generous and courageous Canadians, members of the military and civilians, who had gone to Afghanistan to give the very best of themselves, we find ourselves once again cruelly faced with the tragic deaths of Sergeant Shawn Eades, Corporal Dustin Wasden and Sapper Stephan Stock, who had also been serving in Afghanistan. All three soldiers were combat engineers with 12 Field Engineer Squadron, 1 Combat Engineer Regiment based out of Edmonton, Alberta and attached to the Second Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group.

Their vehicle exploded when it struck yet another of those deadly improvised explosive devices. A fourth solider in the same convoy was also seriously wounded.

These constant attacks and devastating violence have no other purpose than to sabotage the tireless efforts and aid that our soldiers and humanitarian workers are bringing to the Afghan people.

The situation is serious. The mission is complex and dangerous. But every effort must be made to ensure that life triumphs over the forces of destruction that are undermining the present and future of this proud people who, even in the most difficult moments, continue to hope for better days and to believe in the importance of international solidarity to build the peace and re-establish the stability that are so vital to human development in the region.

Sergeant Eades, Corporal Wasden and Sapper Stock made the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to make that dream a reality and to combat terror. Their actions deserve our utmost respect and recognition.

It is our hope that the families, friends and comrades of Sergeant Eades, Corporal Wasden and Sapper Stock know that we share their pain, that they are not alone, and that I, my husband Jean-Daniel Lafond and our entire country stand with them during this painful and sorrowful time.  

Michaëlle Jean

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Media Information
Isabelle Serrurier
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