OTTAWA – One Canadian Forces member was killed yesterday, December 18th, 2010, after an improvised explosive device detonated while on operations in the Panjwa’i district of Kandahar Province, at approximately 12:30 p.m. local time.
Killed in action was Corporal Steve Martin, from 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment, serving with 1st Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group, based at CFB Valcartier, Quebec.
Governor General David Johnson has issued the following statement:
“Our nation stands together in sorrow today, following the death of Corporal Steve Martin, who died after an improvised explosive device detonated while on patrol in Afghanistan. He was serving with 1er Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group, based at Valcartier, Quebec.
While I have just begun my duties as governor general of Canada, I now feel the weight of my responsibilities as commander-in-chief. Like his comrades-in-arms, Corporal Martin displayed an admirable sense of duty to Canada, bringing great pride to his unit and to the Forces as a whole.
The grief brought by this loss is felt throughout the entire military family and by Canadians from coast to coast. On behalf of all of them, I join with my wife, Sharon, in offering our deepest sympathies to Corporal Martin’s loved ones and friends.”
Comments on this story regarding political or policy of the war in Afghanistan will be moderated. The impact of this soldier’s death in Afganistan on his family and friends outweigh those of individuals who might wish to make political commentary.