Statement by Prime Minister Stephen Harper

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of two Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan:

“It is with deep sadness that I learned of the deaths of Warrant Officer Gaetan Joseph Maxime Roberge from the 2nd Battalion, The Irish Regiment of Canada  of Sudbury and Sgt. Gregory John Kruse from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment of Petawawa., who died today in Afghanistan as the result of an improvised explosive device detonation near where they were conducting security operations.

I offer my sincerest condolences to their families, friends and comrades. I also wish a speedy recovery to the four CF members injured in the same explosion.

This is not an easy mission, but Canada and its allies are committed to helping the Afghan people achieve peace and stability and rebuild their country.

The Government of Canada and all Canadians are proud of our men and women of the Canadian Forces who courageously risk their lives every day in support of this United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission.

The sacrifices of these soldiers will not be forgotten.”