21 June 2010
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:
"On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my deepest condolences to the family, friends and comrades of Sergeant James Patrick Macneil, who died today after an improvised explosive device detonated during a foot patrol, about 20 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City. May you be consoled by the knowledge that an entire country stands behind you in your grief.
"Sergeant Macneil was a courageous, dedicated soldier who gave his life trying to help the Afghan people build a better future for themselves and their country.
"Canadians stand proudly with the men and women of the Canadian Forces as they make brave sacrifices in support of this UN-mandated, NATO-led mission to bring peace and security to the people of Afghanistan.
"Sergeant Macneil's life and death serves as an example of the bravery and outstanding dedication of Canadian Forces members on this mission. Canada will remain forever grateful for his sacrifice. We are all saddened by this loss."
