| Message From Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General and Commander-in-C |
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Just as we were beginning to come to terms with the death of one of our soldiers, we find ourselves once again mourning a tragic loss in the space of just a few hours. It was with great sadness that my husband Jean-Daniel Lafond and I, while on a State visit to Greece, learned of the death of Sapper Steven Marshall of 1 Combat Engineer Regiment based in Edmonton, Alberta, when an improvised explosive device detonated as he was on patrol south-west of Kandahar City. This tragedy is a cruel reminder of the risks that our soldiers in Afghanistan face. We have the utmost respect for these men and women who selflessly give so much of themselves with such tremendous courage. Every day, they do all they can to help improve the life of a people that has long suffered under the yoke of insecurity, violence and oppression. We join all Canadians in extending our sincerest condolences and deepest sympathies to the family, loved ones and colleagues Sapper Steven Marshall. Our very best wishes and thoughts are with you at this time. Michaelle Jean |
