NR - 10.131 - October 28, 2010
OTTAWA – The following statement is issued by General Walt Natynczyk, Chief of the Defence Staff, on behalf of the Canadian Forces regarding Corporal Stuart Langridge:
“I have just spoken to Mrs. Sheila Fynes and have apologized to her and her family on behalf of the Canadian Forces.
“I recognize that the communications with Cpl Langridges’ family regarding his estate was not handled as well as it could have been and for that I am truly sorry.
“Furthermore, the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal deeply regrets the delay in releasing Cpl Langridge’s suicide note, and the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service has since revised its procedures to ensure a situation such as this does not happen again.
“The intent of identifying specific points of contact for communication with the Department of National Defence to the Fynes’ family was to ensure quality and accuracy of information. However it is apparent that the intent was not properly conveyed.
“I wish to confirm my view that any family member of a deceased soldier is free to contact whomever they wish in order to discuss their case, and we are endeavouring to resolve Mrs. Fynes’ concerns as soon as possible.
“While I understand that this issue is complex with many difficult aspects that require legal counsel, we will make every effort to treat all members of the CF family with utmost respect.
“I recognize that the Canadian Forces sometimes makes mistakes. We will do our best to learn our lessons in order to improve how we communicate with the Fynes and our extended CF family.
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