NR - 10.044 - May 18, 2010
OTTAWA - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier:
“We grieve the loss of Colonel Geoff Parker who died today in Afghanistan. He was killed when a suicide car bomb detonated near an International Security Assistance Force convoy in Kabul.
I extend my heartfelt sympathy to Col Parker’s family and friends. Our prayers and thoughts of support are with you at this time, and the Defence family shares your sorrow.
Terrorists have consistently disregarded the desire of Afghans to change and improve the quality of their lives. This cold-blooded attack and murder of soldiers and innocent civilians will not derail progress towards a better Afghanistan.
Participation in the United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission in Afghanistan is a demonstration by Canada of our determination to confront oppression and brutality and to help those in need.
Col Parker was a brave Canadian. His sacrifice will not be forgotten and this event will not deter us from continuing to help Afghans to live in freedom.”
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Colonel Geoff Parker was a member of the Royal Canadian Regiment, working at Land Force Central Area Headquarters in Toronto, Ont.
