Statement by Prime Minister Harper on the death of four Canadian soldiers

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today, upon learning four Canadian soldiers were killed when their armoured G-Wagon was struck by a roadside bomb near the Gumbad platoon house at about 7:30 a.m. Kandahar time this morning.

“This morning, I learned that four Canadian soldiers had made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan.  They were Corporal Matthew Dinning, Bombardier Myles Mansell, Lieutenant William Turner and a fourth soldier whose family has requested he not yet be named.  All died serving their country. 

“These men were working to bring security, democracy, self-sufficiency and prosperity to the Afghan people and to protect Canadians' national and collective security.  We will not forget their selfless contribution to Canada.

“On behalf of all Canadians, I extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and co-workers of these four brave men. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.

“Canada’s mission in Afghanistan faces significant risks such as this daily.  I am proud of the work that is being done there, and the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to do it.”