Canada in Afghanistan

[John McGillivray]

Canadian soldier killed by IED in Afghanistan
Updated Sat. Jan. 31 2009 4:27 PM ET
CTV.ca News Staff
A Canadian soldier was killed in Afghanistan Saturday as he participated in a major operation to locate bomb-making factories in Taliban territory.
Sapper Sean David Greenfield, 25, was killed when the armoured vehicle he was riding in struck an improvised explosive device in the Zhari district, west of Kandahar city.
"It is with a heavy heart that I announce that a Canadian soldier was killed today," Brig.-Gen. Denis Thompson, Canada's top military commander in Afghanistan, said.
Greenfield was killed at the tale end of a joint operation with American and British troops to root out the Taliban's bomb-making abilities.
"The mission in question was meant to go into a zone, the western part of Panjwaii and Zhari districts in order to go after specific Taliban compounds of interest, where we did find. . .bomb-making material and other weapons," Thompson said.
The incident occurred as hundreds of soldiers fanned out over 20 kilometres, looking for Taliban weapons caches.
The other soldiers in the vehicle were not hurt, Thompson said.
Greenfield was a member of 24 Field Engineer Squadron, 2 Combat Engineer Regiment based out of Petawawa, Ont., serving with the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.
Thompson described Greenfield as exceptionally fit and said the young soldier recently completed a combat diver's course. He added that Greenfield aspired to join JTF2, Canada's elite and secretive special forces team.
Greenfield was described as having a great sense of humour and someone who loved to sing and play guitar.
Improvised explosive devices (IEDs) continue to plague Canadian troops in Afghanistan. IEDs are responsible for more than half of all Canadian troop deaths in the country, which now total 108.
Canadian soldiers have ramped up efforts to seek out IED materials in recent months.
In early January, Operation Shahi Tandar (Royal Thunder), a joint operation between Canadian, British and Afghan troops, seized detonators, wires and tubes, and other bomb-making materials.
Saturday's search yielded even more material that would be used to make IEDs.
"The engineers went in and found what seems to be a bit of a false wall," Platoon Commander Lieut. Aron Corey told reporters. "In behind that were some spools of wire, the same type of wire that's used in IEDs."

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNew...hub=TopStories

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Department of National Defence

Apr 24, 2009 05:02 ET
One Canadian Soldier Dies in Afghanistan

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - April 24, 2009) - At approximately 4:00 p.m. Kandahar time, 23 April 2009, a Canadian Forces member was found dead in her accommodation room, at Kandahar Airfield.

Deceased is Major Michelle Mendes, based in Ottawa, Ontario.

An investigation is ongoing to establish the circumstances of this incident. No further details are available at this time, although enemy action has been ruled out.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of our lost comrade. Our primary focus at this time is to provide the best possible support to the family of our soldier and to her colleagues.

The immediate family of Major Mendes has no comment at this time. They are asking that the media respect their privacy and they will provide a statement in due course.

Note to Editors: A photo of the deceased Canadian Forces soldier is available on the Combat Camera website at: www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Looks like the boys in blue are going to make some new maps for the lads..(and lassies)

Department of National Defence

Department of National Defence AIR FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS

AIR FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS
May 08, 2009 12:19 ET
Canada's Air Force to Produce Maps for Canadian Troops in Afghanistan

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - May 8, 2009) - The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, today announced that two CP-140 Auroras deployed overseas yesterday for approximately two months to produce maps for Joint Task Force-Afghanistan.

The Auroras and their two crews will produce high-resolution, colour and stereo imagery in support of Operation ATHENA, the Canadian contingent to the NATO-led mission in Afghanistan. The type of imagery that will be gathered will promote interoperability and operational success since it can be shared across the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), including the Afghan National Army (ANA) and Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF).

"The deployment of the Auroras and their highly specialized sensor equipment displays our commitment to the security and effectiveness of this United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission," said Minister MacKay. "The Aurora crews will produce valuable digital aerial imagery to improve awareness of the situation on the ground for deployed Canadian Forces and allied troops."

The maps produced will cover new ground where no detailed maps exist or be an improvement over existing out-dated maps where developments have changed the landscape. Imagery collected will be based on priority areas identified by the Canadian Forces and allies in conjunction with Joint Task Force -Afghanistan.

"The Auroras' deployment to Afghanistan to perform overland mapping represents an expansion from its long-time role of maritime patrol," said Lieutenant-General Angus Watt, Chief of the Air Staff. "This deployment will demonstrate and increase the experience levels of the CP-140 air and ground crews and be a milestone event for the Long Range Patrol community."

Canada's Air Force has played a critical role in supporting the mission in Afghanistan since 2002, contributing vital airlift; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; and other mission-essential support involving approximately 20 per cent of the personnel deployed in support of the operation.

For detailed information about Joint Task Force-Afghanistan, visit: http://www.cefcom-comfec.forces.gc.c.../index-eng.asp

For more information, please contact
National Defence Media Liaison Office
Information: 1-866-377-0811 / 613-996-2353
After hours: 613-792-2973
www.forces.gc.ca
Click here to see all recent news from this company

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Department of National Defence
Jul 03, 2009 14:45 ET
One Canadian Soldier Killed and Five Injured in an Explosive Device Strike

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 3, 2009) - One Canadian soldier was killed and five injured when an improvised explosive device detonated near their armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Zhari District. The incident occurred south-west of Kandahar City at around 11:20 a.m., Kandahar time, on 3 July, 2009.

Killed in action was Cpl Nicholas Bulger from the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry based in Edmonton.

The injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at the Kandahar Airfield. They are in good condition and under medical care.

The identities of the injured soldiers will not be released.

The soldiers were members of the Task Force Kandahar Headquarters.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade during this very difficult time.

Members of Task Force Kandahar are committed to improving security and increasing development in Kandahar Province. Despite these cowardly attacks we are determined to continue working with our Afghan and international partners towards a better future for the people of Afghanistan.

Note to Editors:

A photograph of Cpl Bulger is available on the Combat Camera website (search under last name) at: www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca

For more information, please contact
Information: 1-866-377-0811 / 613-995-2353
After hours: 613-792-2973
www.forces.gc.ca
Click here to see all recent news from this company

[servicepub (RIP)]

Shit! I hate seeing this thread updated in my e-mails, 'cause I know it will be another announcement of the loss of a good Canadian soldier.
RIP soldier

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Originally Posted by servicepub

Shit! I hate seeing this thread updated in my e-mails, 'cause I know it will be another announcement of the loss of a good Canadian soldier.
RIP soldier

Clive ..it is really sad any time one of our young warriors pays the ultimate price for us..
The sad thing this time is that they interviewed him at length on TV the day before he was killed ..

[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

RIP, MCPL Michaud.

July 5, 2009
Injured Canadian soldier dies of wounds
By Nelson Wyatt, THE CANADIAN PRESS

MONTREAL - A deadly improvised explosive device of the type that has slashed into the ranks of Canadian troops serving in Afghanistan has claimed another victim, bringing the Canadian military death toll in the war-weary country to 122.

Master Cpl. Philippe Michaud died in a Quebec City hospital from devastating injuries he sustained from a landmine while on foot patrol in the Panjwaii district on June 23, the Canadian Forces said Sunday.

Michaud's death was announced as another family prepared to receive the remains of the 121st Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan.

The body of Cpl. Nick Bulger, who was killed last Friday by a roadside bomb in Zhari district, is due to arrive Monday afternoon at Canadian Forces Base Trenton.

Bulger, 30, from the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry based in Edmonton, was raised near Peterborough, Ont.

Word on the repatriation of Bulger's remains came on the same day the military announced Michaud had died from his wounds.

Michaud was praised Sunday as a model soldier who worked tirelessly to season his fellow troops.

"Nicknamed 'Chuck' by his friends, Master Cpl. Michaud had an enormous presence in the field and the garrison," said Col. Jean Marc Lanthier, commander of the 5th Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group, as he announced Michaud's death at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier, near Quebec City.

"Very close to his men, he looked after their well-being constantly," Lanthier said. "He was deeply involved in the development of his subordinates and was a mentor to younger soldiers."

"He remains an example to be followed by all his fellow troops. His departure leaves a huge hole in the heart of his section, his platoon and his regiment."

Michaud, who was on his third operational tour and his second in Afghanistan, was wounded southwest of Kandahar city. A member of the 2e Batallion, Royal 22e Regiment based at Valcartier, he never regained consciousness.

A helicopter raced him from the scene of the explosion to the coalition medical facility in Kandahar city. He was transferred to a military hospital in Germany before being returned to a Quebec City hospital on June 28.

He died of his injuries on Saturday afternoon.

Lanthier said Michaud is survived by his wife, his parents and a brother. The military said the family would have no immediate comment.

Tributes poured in quickly from Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Gov.-Gen. Michaelle Jean and Defence Minister Peter MacKay.

Harper extended his sympathies to Michaud's family and friends and reiterated his commitment to Canada's mission in Afghanistan.

"We honour his sacrifice," Harper said in a statement. "We stand by our troops and allies in the struggle to bring Afghans a better future and make Canadians safer."

MacKay described Michaud as "valiant and courageous."

"Thanks to Master Cpl. Charles-Philippe Michaud, progress and change is taking place in Afghanistan."

In praising Michaud, Jean noted that "attacks in Afghanistan are constant and merciless."

"Our patrolling soldiers and those assigned to demining the country are acutely aware of this and yet go meet danger face to face every day," she said.

"Their courage knows no limit."

[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

RIP, Private Lormand.

Canadian soldier killed by IED blast in Afghanistan



Pte. Patrick Lormand, 21 of the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment, is seen in this image made available by the Department of National Defence.

The Canadian Press

Updated: Mon. Sep. 14 2009 5:36 AM ET

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan — The 'bright, clear eyes' of another young Canadian soldier were closed forever Sunday as an improvised explosive device raised Canada's death toll in this bleak and unforgiving land to 130.
Pte. Patrick Lormand, 21 of the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment was killed and four others were injured in a roadside IED blast approximately 13 kilometres southwest of Kandahar city.

"He did not come here as a potential victim, he came here to help and help he did. He does not need to be told his efforts are futile for he could see positive results in the communities he was protecting," said an emotional Brig. Gen. Jonathan Vance, the commander of Task Force Kandahar.

"You need only look into those young, clear eyes to know that he was a good soul, who tried every day to do the right thing and saw in the results of his efforts a chance to succeed on a wider scale on behalf of Canadians and Afghans alike."

An opinion column that ran in several Canadian newspapers from Colin Kenny, the chair of the Senate Committee on National Security and Defence, criticized the Afghan mission as being `futile' and said "It's time to retreat from Canada's Vietnam".

"He took a fatal strike where an Afghan family might have. He lived in the community so they knew the families he was protecting and they saw him as just that -- a protector," said Vance.

"Neither he nor his family benefit from uninformed opinions about what his goals were and the techniques he used to achieve them," he added. "The thousands of young, clear, determined eyes that remain wide open here in Kandahar are working hard, every day to protect and stabilize the population -- not an impossible mission as some might suggest."

Pte. Lormand was on a patrol in the volatile Panjwaii district, where Canadian soldiers have been battling the Taliban for the past few years. The injured soldiers were treated at Kandahar Airfield for minor injuries and released.

The incident happened at 1 p.m. Kandahar time on Sunday. Journalists at Kandahar Airfield were informed almost immediately but it was nearly a full 24 hours before the Canadian forces lifted the embargo.

Lormand, or "Lorm" as he was known to his friends, was well liked and his good humour and happiness was credited with raising the morale of his section and his platoon.

He had pride in his mission, said Vance, and was dedicated to his peers and to his career as an infantryman. He is survived by his parents Jacques and Sylvie Lormand.

The latest incident happened one week after another powerful blast hit an armoured vehicle in the same area, killing 36-year-old Maj. Yannick Pepin and Cpl. Jean-Francois Drouin, 31.

Both men were members of the 5 Combat Engineer Regiment and were stationed in Valcartier, Que.

Lormand is the 12th soldier killed during the current rotation.
A few days ago, the Chief of Canada's Defence Staff, Gen. Walter Natynczyk had been urging soldiers here to be careful and not to let down their guard as their tour came to an end.

The IED has become the weapon of choice for the Taliban for over two years. Seventy-one of the 130 Canadian soldiers killed in Afghanistan have died from IED strikes. Since April of 2007 - 62 of the 85 Canadian deaths were the result of improvised explosive devices which are cheap and easy to make.

Six Canadian soldiers died on April 8, 2007 - Sgt. Donald Lucas, Cpl. Aaron E. Williams, Pte. Kevin V. Kennedy, Pte. David R. Greenslade, Cpl. Christopher P. Stannix and Cpl. Brent Poland.

"His was a world where success is something won under the hardest of circumstances, where ideas are turned into action and where the Canadian forces seek to protect and stabilize," said Vance.

"Rest in peace brother Patrick."

[John McGillivray]

Canadian soldier killed, 11 injured in Afghan blast
Updated Thu. Sep. 17 2009 5:37 PM ET
CTV.ca News Staff
A Canadian soldier has died in an Afghan bomb attack, the second such death in less than a week.
The soldier has been identified as 23-year-old Pte. Jonathan Couturier of the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment, based in Valcartier, Que.
Couturier, who was involved in a mission to seize weapons and control Taliban movements, was killed when an improvised explosive device exploded.
He is the 131st Canadian soldier to die in Afghanistan.
Eleven others were also injured in the blast, but those injuries weren't serious, said Brig.-Gen. Jonathan Vance.
The death comes a day after the body of Pte. Patrick Lormand, 21, returned to Canada in an emotional ceremony at CFB Trenton in Ontario.
Lormand was killed by a roadside bomb on Sunday in Afghanistan's southwest near Kandahar City.
Earlier on Thursday, six Italian soldiers and 10 Afghans were killed in Kabul by a suicide car bomber.
The Taliban claimed responsibility for the blast and it came despite massive security in the Afghan capital.
Violence has been on the rise in Afghanistan as thousands of U.S. troops have entered the country with the intention of pushing insurgents out of their strongholds.
The attacks also follow a highly contentious presidential election, which still has no clear winner.
In the weeks before Afghans went to the ballot boxes, the Taliban vowed to disrupt voting through violence and intimidation.

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNew...hub=TopStories

[Mark W. Tonner]

OTTAWA – One Canadian soldier was killed and two injured by an improvised explosive device that detonated near their dismounted patrol. The incident occurred approximately 20 kilometres south-west of Kandahar City at around 9 a.m., Kandahar time, on 28 October 2009.

Killed in action was Lieutenant Justin Boyes of the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, serving with the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team.

The injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Multi-National Medical Facility at the Kandahar Airfield and are in good condition. The next of kin for the injured soldiers have also been notified. The identities of the injured soldiers will not be released.

Our thoughts and condolences go to the family and friends of our fallen comrade.

Members of Task Force Afghanistan work with Afghan security forces for the greater good of Afghanistan. We remain focused and determined to bringing peace, stability and good governance despite the challenge imposed on us by the insurgents. We remain committed to Afghanistan.

[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

RIP, Lieutenant.

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Originally Posted by Geoff Winnington-Ball

Just saw on Global news that there was a suicide bombing against another LAV this moring. None killed, but several wounded. The bomb blew out all the right-side tires, but it looks like the armour retained its integrity.

More to follow.

Department of National Defence


Department of National Defence
Jul 16, 2009 11:40 ET
One Canadian Soldier Killed on Operations

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 16, 2009) - One Canadian soldier died while conducting operations in the Panjwayi District. The incident occurred approximately 17 kilometres south-west from Kandahar City at around 6:00 a.m., Kandahar time, on July 16, 2009.

Killed in action was Private Sebastien Courcy from 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment based in Quebec City, Quebec. Pte Courcy was serving as a member of the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group.

Pte Courcy was evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at the Kandahar Airfield.

Our thoughts and condolences go to the family and friends of our fallen comrade.

Canadian soldiers and their ANSF partners work together for the greater good of Afghanistan. Security operations sometimes require a heavy price to be paid, but the challenge we face cannot deter us from our ultimate goal and commitment we have toward Afghans.

Note to Editors:

A photograph of Pte Courcy is available on the Canadian Forces Image Gallery website (search under last name) at: www.combatcamera.forces.gc.ca

For more information, please contact
Information: 1-866-377-0811/613-996-2353
After hours: 613-792-2973
www.forces.gc.ca
Click here to see all recent news from this company

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Two more good Canadian troops paid the ultimate price 1 ST August..Go with God ..Bless you..
RIP..


Department of National Defence




Aug 03, 2009 10:15 ETName of Second Canadian Soldier Killed in Afghanistan Released
OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 3, 2009) - The identity of the second Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan on August 1, 2009 is as follows:

- Sapper Matthieu Allard from 5e Regiment du genie de combat serving as a member of the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group based in Valcartier, Quebec.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

A photograph of Sapper Matthieu Allard is available on the Combat Camera Website (search under last name) at: http://www.combatcamera.ca.



For more information, please contact

Information: 613-996-2353/54
After hours: 613-996-2353
www.forces.gc.ca Click here to see all recent news from this company

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Governor General of Canada




Aug 03, 2009 10:48 ETMessage From Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, on the Deaths of Corporal Christian Bobbitt and Sapper Matthieu Allard
OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 3, 2009) -

Words cannot express the pain and sadness we feel upon learning of the deaths of Corporal Christian Bobbitt and Sapper Matthieu Allard, both from 5e Regiment du genie de combat serving as members of the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment. They were killed on patrol when their vehicle hit an improvised explosive device in the Zhari district, 15 km outside Kandahar City. Another of their comrades was gravely wounded.

The thoughts of my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I are with the parents, families, loved ones and friends of these soldiers. This is a devastating blow to all of them, who today are inconsolable. We hope they can take comfort knowing that they are not alone, and that Canadians everywhere are touched and saddened by their loss. Above all, with the greatest respect and consideration, we will never forget the heroic contributions of these brave soldiers.

They gave the very best of themselves and their lives knowing that their efforts would help to improve the lives of thousands of women, men and children whose greatest desire is to live in a peaceful, safe country, where democracy and justice prevail.

Their courage and self-sacrifice honour them.

Michaelle Jean



For more information, please contact

Rideau Hall Press Office
Marie-Eve Letourneau
613-998-0287
www.gg.ca
www.citizenvoices.gg.ca Click here to see all recent news from this company

[John McGillivray]

Two Canadian soldiers killed in roadside bomb blast
Updated Mon. Sep. 7 2009 7:53 AM ET
CTV.ca News Staff
Two more Canadian soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan, after a roadside bomb exploded on a road southwest of Kandahar.
The blast occurred at around noon on Sunday, in the Dand district, southwest of Kandahar city.
Maj. Yannick Pepin, 36, and Cpl. Jean-Francois Drouin, 21, were killed by the bomb. Five others were injured in the blast.
Both fallen soldiers were members of the 5 Combat Engineer Regiment out of Valcartier, Que.
Following the news of their deaths, Col. Roch Lacroix, the deputy commander for Task Force Kandahar, said the entire task force was mourning their loss.
"Saying goodbye to Yannick and Jean-Francois so prematurely is hard for me, it is hard for their friends, and it's hard for their families," Lacroix said late Sunday night.
"Engineers like Yannick and Jean-Francois....put in a great deal of effort in Afghanistan where they're denying the ability of the insurgents to kill innocent victims on a large scale or simply reconstructing a bridge, roads, schools with their Afghan partners."
Lacroix praised both men for their commitment to the mission and their personal qualities.
"Nothing comes easy here and it takes patience and determination -- two qualities that both men embodied. Today is the time to grieve but tomorrow we will continue our work to better the lives of Afghans."
Pepin leaves behind his partner, Annie, and their two children, Alexandra and Charles.
The 10-year Canadian Forces veteran was a compassionate soldier, Lacroix said.
"Proof of this was when he was on patrol once and stopped his vehicle to take a kite out of the antenna from his vehicle. He handed it to the small Afghan child who thought it had been lost. That day he carried a big grin," said Lacroix.
"Yannick was a man of action who was always involved in things and put his personal interests second. We miss him enormously."
His younger colleague Drouin had a bright future ahead of him in the military. He was known among his fellow soldiers as 'Big Drou,' and as a guy who liked to make other people laugh.
"Jean-Francois was a very generous man with a big heart," Lacroix said. "As big a heart as the three pieces of steel he liked to lift in the gymnasium."
Lacroix said Drouin had recently received an accelerated promotion to the rank of corporal.
Drouin is survived by his partner, Audrey.
Canada has now lost 129 soldiers during its mission in Afghanistan since it began seven years ago.
With files from The Canadian Press
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNew...hub=TopStories

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Two more deaths of our troops and five injured,,.
God bless 'em and rest in peace..

Department of National Defence


Department of National Defence
Sep 07, 2009 08:19 ET
Statement by the Minister of National Defence on the Deaths of Major Yannick Pepin and Corporal Jean-Francois Drouin

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Sept. 7, 2009) - The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Gateway, issued the following statement today on the deaths of two Canadian soldiers in Afghanistan:

"The Canadian Forces and the Department of National Defence mourn the deaths of Major Yannick Pepin and Corporal Jean-Francois Drouin, who made the ultimate sacrifice today in Afghanistan. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their loved ones in this time of grief, and to the five other Canadian Forces members injured in this attack.

Major Pepin and Corporal Drouin died when an improvised explosive device detonated near the vehicle in which they were travelling in the Dand District, southwest of Kandahar.

Their tragic passing illustrates some of the risks that the selfless men and women of the Canadian Forces face every day in carrying out their duties.

Canada is in Afghanistan as part of a UN-sanctioned mission to help build a stable, democratic, and self-sufficient society. Progress toward this goal cannot be made in an unstable security environment. Our Canadian Forces members are playing a key role in this NATO-led mission, helping improve the security situation in order to create the conditions necessary for Afghans to live normal lives.

Major Pepin and Corporal Drouin were helping to bring back hope to a population that has seen much hardship and turmoil.

This is a tragic loss for the Canadian Forces and all of Canada.

Major Yannick Pepin and Corporal Jean-Francois Drouin were members of 5e Regiment du genie de combat, based at CFB Valcartier.

[Lang]

Having checked on this thread from time to time it occurs to me there must be a similar American forum with ten times the depressing list of casualties in Afghanistan. Add to that the British, Australians, Dutch, Belgians etc who are being killed or wounded daily.

I feel I am of average intelligence with a long interest in the military and follow world affairs very closely. Despite this I have NEVER seen or heard anyone from any nation explaining exactly what we doing there and what we are trying to achieve.

Political clap-trap about "improving the lives of the Afghan people" seems to be the sum total of the reasons for a continuous growing list of dead soldiers.

The recent highly talked-up elections with almost no elector turnout and now the totally expected corruption cries from the losers was the publicised justification for the slaughter of our soldiers for the last two years - a total failure.

Abysmal double standards are evident when the world's prime source of heroin could be totally eradicated in a few weeks but is left to grow so the farmers will not be influenced to turn to the Taliban after losing an income (they have only had in relatively recent years anyhow). The Americans and all of us partners should rightly be listing the ruined lives and miserable deaths of thousands of our people through the use of this "agricultural" crop as casualties of the war as well.

What military aims do we have other than to drive around until unlucky enough to be killed by a remotely fired explosive placed by an enemy who seldom gathers in numbers large enough to result in any decisive or even telling battle. I don't know, none of the Generals I have seen interviewed know, can the politicians please tell us.

The British were massacred in Afghanistan over several campaigns, the might of the entire Russian military effort could make no headway despite much more relaxed rules of engagement, restrictions or ethics than now restrict our troops.

Sure, Afghan life was not the best under the Taliban but Afghanistan is a shining light of peace and freedom compared to a long list of other countries. Who cares about the Congo and Angola where 6 million (yes the same number as the entire holocaust!) have died and continue to die. Rwanda - millions, Somalia - million etc etc.

Is there anyone on the forum who can tell me (and the rest of the world) EXACTLY why we are in Afghanistan and what are the exact military aims which justify the staggering cost and dismal casualty lists.

Lang

[Gordon Yeo]

Perhaps after the former experiances in the Congo, Rawanda and Somalia nobody wants to go play there again. Afganistan is still all new and exciting for Canada. However, maybe after we get home after 2011 we wont be so quick to go back again.

[Alex Blair (RIP)]

Lang..

Some time ago I read a report that seemed to address just that question and the writer alleged that the American oil industry had to establish a secure route to run a pipe line from the 'stan country's ,through Afghanistan and Pakistan to access the oil reserves of those country's...
After the fall of the Soviet Union,the 'stans got their "independence"and Big Oil was the first one in there to grease the wheels of the local chief stick...
With their war chests of cash the oil contracts and fields were soon tied in ,but no way to get the stuff to market..other than an oil pipeline through China or Russia..neither one a hot prospect..
Afghanistan and Pakistan is where they were going to build the pipeline to the seaport on the coast of Pakistan..
Why we are there ..I don't know..but where there is oil ..there is money and power..which can buy anything..including our boys lives..
2011 Is long enough ..and although I support our troops,(Having been one for 14 years)I am leery to support the politics of death and destruction of our way of life to try to change tribal society that has flourished,right of wrong ,for thousands of years..
Time they fixed it them selves..which they eventually will ..when the time is right..for them..not for us..
Rant over..
Off the box..

[sapper740]

Originally Posted by Lang

Is there anyone on the forum who can tell me (and the rest of the world) EXACTLY why we are in Afghanistan and what are the exact military aims which justify the staggering cost and dismal casualty lists.
Lang

We're not over there fighting to support a tribal government, hence the elections, nor for Afghanistan's vast oil resources (they have none), we're there to prevent the country from being a breeding ground for Islam terrorists, present and future. Our presence there keeps the Taliban and Al Qaeda on their heels, preventing them from consolidating their power through terror and turning Afghanistan into a terrorist training camp on a nation-wide basis. Further, by being there it makes it difficult for the Mullahs to indoctrinate the next generation of Bin Laden "Jugend" into wanting to martyr themselves. It's unfortunate that there are those who, without the stomach for a prolonged struggle, would have us leave Afghanistan without a self supporting government that has some idea of human rights in place. Believe me, radical Islam not only has the stomach, it thrives on chaos, torture, and bloodshed. There is no appeasing the blood lust and hatred of the West by radical Islam...why is it so many forget the mistakes of the past? One doesn't have to look too far into history to see the failed policies of Appeasement. Unfortunately, way too many of our fine young men have to give their lives in this struggle, but I'm willing to bet that they are in Heaven right now looking down on us willing us to keep the faith and finish the job so that their sacrifice wasn't for nought. Derek.

[Lang]

Derek,

Thanks for that.

I think you are very optimistic to believe we can ever "get the job done" - to do so will require decades of involvement and huge numbers of garrison troops to keep any form of organised government and society on the "right" track.

We are not trying to get rid of a bad government (Hitler and numerous other dictators or juntas) in Afghanistan, we are trying to create a new society.

We have an even money shot in Iraq because Iraq had a relatively well educated well organised and functioning country under Hussein and all we had to to do was get rid of the evil to reveal the acceptable base system like we did in Germany and Japan in the 40's.

As for Afghanistan becoming the world's terrorist training ground - once we finish there we will have to follow them across the border to the other 'stans and even into our ally Pakistan (where they operate now in any case). We have to find some other way to to solve the Islam/West divide or our soldiers are going to keep being killed in Central Asia for the next hundred years.

I certainly don't know the answer and I don't think anyone else does but we sure have to come up with one.

Lang

[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

One critical, three serious.

[John McGillivray]

From CBC news:

5 Canadian soldiers injured in suicide attack
Last Updated Fri, 03 Mar 2006 06:14:11 EST
CBC News
A suicide bomber drove his vehicle into a Canadian military convoy outside Kandahar Friday, injuring five Canadian soldiers, said the military.
One of the Canadians received serious injuries to his arm, while the four others are lightly wounded.
The seriously injured soldier will be flown to a U.S. military hospital in Landstuhl, Germany. A surgeon at the Kandahar military base said the soldier will likely undergo reconstructive surgery and should be able to keep his arm, said CBC reporter Patrick Brown.
A small Toyota truck rammed into the soldiers' armoured LAV-3 and exploded, causing a loud blast and sending plumes of smoke into the air. The soldiers had been escorting a convoy of investigators looking into a January attack that took the life of Canadian diplomat Glyn Berry.
A spokesperson for the Taliban told Associated Press it sent the bomber, who it said was an Afghan from Kandahar province.

http://www.cbc.ca/story/world/nation...ide060303.html

To add insult to injury: The day after George Bush’s visit to Afghanistan, an American Maj. General orders all Canadian flags taken down.

Only Afghanistan colours can fly
Soldiers angered by rule

Chris Wattie, with files from Mary Vallis, National Post
Published: Thursday, March 02, 2006
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan - Canadian soldiers in southern Afghanistan have been ordered, under a directive from a U.S. general, to lower the Maple Leaf from flagpoles at their two bases, from over their tents and even from the aerials atop their vehicles.
The order from Major General Benjamin Freakley states that the only flag to fly over coalition bases, facilities or vehicles will be the red, green and black Afghan flag.
"I specifically asked my commanders to think about our flags," Maj.-Gen. Freakley said this week.
"We had a plethora of flags all over the compounds ... I asked us to think about who we're serving and who we're serving with."
There are troops from dozens of different countries under his southern Afghanistan command, including 2,200 Canadians based in Kandahar Air Field and a smaller provincial reconstruction team camp in the city of Kandahar.
The flag order was applied to almost every non-Afghan flag in the Canadian section of the sprawling air field base, including regimental flags hung or flown from the soldiers' barracks, tents or rest areas.
The order has caused some hard feelings in the ranks.
"Sure, we should show the Afghan flag," said one non-commissioned officer, who had to remove a Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry flag from a makeshift patio set up by his platoon. "But this is bull----. What about soldiers' pride? What about regimental pride? No Afghans would ever have seen this where we had it."
Scott Taylor, editor of Esprit de Corps military magazine in Ottawa, said national pride is an important reason many soldiers join the Canadian Armed Forces.
"It seems a bit almost silly that they are going to see that flag and then somehow feel kindred to us in such a fractious civilian population as it is. They're all under different warlords. How many of them even recognize or respect the national flag, particularly the ones that we're going to be fighting?" Mr. Taylor asked.
"Our guys didn't join up as Afghan mercenaries.... Our guys take their oath of allegiance to the Queen. And the Governor-General is our commander-in-chief, not [Afghan President] Hamid Karzai."
The flag order also applies to U.S. soldiers, who still make up most of the coalition forces in southern Afghanistan.
Maj.-Gen. Freakley said the idea was to make it clear the foreign soldiers are there to help the Afghan government.
"I don't want us to find reasons to pull back from the people of Afghanistan and not be teammates and get behind national barriers or anything," he said.
"We're trying to make subtle, transitional moves to help the people of Afghanistan fend for themselves. In no way is it intended to suppress any national pride."
He said the soldiers of the coalition still wear their national flags on the sleeves of their uniforms and that ought to be enough.
Brigadier-General David Fraser, the Canadian general who took command of a multinational brigade based in Kandahar this week, said he supported the order.
"It goes back to the cultural sensitivity training that we did back in Canada. This is not Canada, this is the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan [and] we've got to respect their cultures and traditions," he said.

http://www.canada.com/national/natio...7-ca9a56410220

[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

According to CTV News:

CTV.ca News Staff

Updated: Fri. Mar. 3 2006 7:41 AM ET

Five Canadian soldiers were injured -- one seriously -- in a suicide bomb attack Friday near Kandahar, the Canadian military said.

One soldier is in critical but stable condition, and underwent surgery for wounds to his arm. He is expected to be airlifted to the U.S. medical facility at Landstuhl in Germany.

The other four soldiers were slightly hurt in the blast, the military said. They are expected to return to duty shortly.

A man driving a white Corolla in the opposite direction turned his vehicle into the convoy that was carrying the Canadian patrol and detonated his explosives, said CTV's Steve Chao, reporting from Kandahar.

The blast left a large crater in the road, and was loud enough that it could be heard by soldiers at the provincial reconstruction team base, kilometres away.

Names of the injured have not yet been released, pending notification of kin.

This is the first time that a suicide bomber has targeted a LAV III vehicle.

The seriously injured soldier was outside of a hatch, in the air sentry position out back, where he has machine guns trained on any potential attackers.

"And this is the position that often where we see the injuries occur," said Chao.

....

[chris vickery]

Sorry guys, but here it comes. All i can say is what a bunch of F***ing B******T!!!
Once again, Canadians take a backseat to political correctness. Our men and women are fighting as Canadian soldiers under the Canadian flag. Not the Stars and Stripes, or the Afgan rag, but the maple leaf. If I were in the CF right now I'd walk in, resign my tenure and head home, or go to jail if need be. I certainly wouldn't agree to ride in a LAV, G wagen or any other mv adorned with a foreign country's flag on it. The flag of our nation is respected all around the world and to tell our tropps to remove it, cease displaying it etc is an insult. TOTAL BULLSHIT. Lets bring our boys home and let these assholes rot in their shithole country.... same goes for Iraq. To top it off, why should we take orders from some American MGen. I somehow doubt any American would listen to our request to cease from flying the Stars and Stripes...

[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

Originally posted by chris vickery
Sorry guys, but here it comes. All i can say is what a bunch of F***ing B******T!!!
Once again, Canadians take a backseat to political correctness. Our men and women are fighting as Canadian soldiers under the Canadian flag. Not the Stars and Stripes, or the Afgan rag, but the maple leaf. If I were in the CF right now I'd walk in, resign my tenure and head home, or go to jail if need be. I certainly wouldn't agree to ride in a LAV, G wagen or any other mv adorned with a foreign country's flag on it. The flag of our nation is respected all around the world and to tell our tropps to remove it, cease displaying it etc is an insult. TOTAL BULLSHIT. Lets bring our boys home and let these assholes rot in their shithole country.... same goes for Iraq. To top it off, why should we take orders from some American MGen. I somehow doubt any American would listen to our request to cease from flying the Stars and Stripes...

Couldn't agree more. We have a fine history of fighting and dying for other peoples' freedoms... UNDER OUR OWN FLAG. We should tell the yanks to screw off and leave us to do our jobs in the best way we know how.

Just too bad we need their resources in order to do those jobs...

[Tony Smith]

Originally posted by John McGillivray
From CBC news:

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan - Canadian soldiers in southern Afghanistan have been ordered to lower the Maple Leaf from flagpoles at their two bases.....

Geoff, do you have any Red Ensigns you could send?

Originally posted by Tony Smith
Geoff, do you have any Red Ensigns you could send?

I think he's all out right now Tony ... but maybe he ordered some

[DaveCox]

Quoted from another forum, and attributed to 'The Star' in Calgary: "Master Cpl. Michael Loewen was seriously injured and will need major reconstructive surgery to save his arm, but he will survive, a surgeon says. Loewen was on his way Friday night to the U.S. combat casualty hospital at Landstuhl, Germany ".

Mike is a member of several modellers forums on the internet, and someone that I feel I know, although we've never met in person.
I just hope that he and his comrades get the treatment they need and then a fast flight home.

[John McGillivray]

There is a report on CBC this morning of another Canadian wounded in a firefight north of Kandahar. No details yet and nothing on line.