5 GBMC.08.12 - January 24, 2008
Valcartier Garrison, Quebec – It is with great sorrow that all members of the 5 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group (5 CMBG), particularly those of the 5 Combat Engineer Regiment (5 CER), received the news of the death of Corporal Étienne Gonthier in Afghanistan.
“It was with great emotion that I was informed of the death of Corporal Étienne Gonthier, who was working to provide greater security for the afghan people. In these difficult circumstances, we are all saddened and filled with sorrow. To his family and to those who knew and cherished him, know that the thoughts and hearts of an entire community are with you. I ask you to accept my most sincere condolences, in my name, but also in the name of all men, women and families of 5 CMBG”, says Colonel Éric Tremblay, 5 CMBG Commander.
“Parents, loved ones and friends of Étienne, I can only painfully imagine the great void created by Étienne’s sudden passing. For us, his brothers in arms of 5 CER, his departure is a very sad ordeal that reminds us of the reality attached to our commitment. In this period of great sorrow, the most soothing gesture we can think of is to reiterate our friendship and our solidarity in this terrible loss. A dedicated and professional soldier, Étienne embodied what every commander wants to see in his men and women. He will be missed. CHIMO”, adds Major Claude Many, 5 CER Commanding Officer, Corporal Gonthier’s home unit.
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Note: Please note that this news release constitutes the only official declaration that will be made from Valcartier Garrison today. No further action is foreseen at the moment.
Any questions regarding Corporal Étienne Gonthier’s death may be forwarded to 5 CMGB Public Affairs Office (see numbers below). Details on the funeral will be released at a later date. For any other inquiry concerning this incident, please contact Media Liaison Office in Ottawa at 1 866 377-0811.
INFORMATION: 5 CMBG Public Affairs Office
Phone: (418) 844-5000 extension 4224
Pager: (418) 260-3082
