OTTAWA - The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier:
"It is with great sadness that I learned yesterday of the death of Private Colin William Wilmot in Afghanistan. On behalf of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces, I would like to offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of this valiant soldier. We grieve with them during this difficult time.
Private Wilmot, a medic serving with the Health Services Support Unit in Afghanistan, died when an explosive device detonated near a dismounted security patrol in Panjwayi District.
Canada is in Afghanistan at the request of the democratically elected government, and as part of a NATO-led, UN-mandated mission to help build a stable, democratic, and self-sufficient society.
The Canadian Forces is making an immense difference in the lives of Afghans while protecting and promoting both Canadian and international security. Despite our grief, we will continue our important mission to bring peace and stability to the people of Afghanistan.
Private Wilmot was a dedicated and professional soldier, who will be dearly missed. His sacrifice will not be forgotten."
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Private Wilmot was a medic serving with the Health Services Support Unit in Afghanistan and was attached to the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group. His home unit was 1 Field Ambulance, based in Edmonton, Alberta.
