Sault soldier dies in Afghanistan

Sault Ste. Marie has lost another local soldier serving his country and the people of Afghanistan.

Sergeant John Wayne Faught from the Ontario Sault was killed today by an improvised explosive device during a foot patrol south of Kandahar City.

"We were just talking about Don Cherry and the Vernelli family, what karma," Faught's cousin Corey Evans tells SooToday.com. "His mother Donna lives here and sister Shawna lives in Toronto. I wish I could give you more details, however it's a struggle to write this."

In announcing Sergeant Faught's death, Brigadier-General Daniel Menard said that he affectionately known in the ranks as Toast, because "in his words, he was hard and crusty [and] was known for his straightforward approach to soldiering."

The National Post is quoting Menard as saying that Faught looked out for his soldiers like a father.

Faught's uncle Ron told the newspaper that his nephew was serving his third tour in Afghanistan, which would have ended in June.

"He always wanted to help everybody but himself. He would give you the shirt off his back. He was a good man."

The following statement was issued tonight by the Department of National Defence.

************************* Canadian soldier killed by improvised explosive device OTTAWA, ONTARIO - (January 16) - One Canadian soldier was killed by an improvised explosive device during a dismounted security patrol near the town of Nakhonay in the Panjwayi district, approximately 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City.

The incident took place at approximately 2 p.m. Kandahar time today.

Killed in action was Sergeant John Wayne Faught from the 1st Battalion Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, based in Edmonton, Alberta.

He was serving as a member of the Task Force 3-09 Battle Group.

At this sad time, our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen Canadian comrade.

The commitment and sacrifice of our soldiers and their loved ones are helping to make a difference in the lives of the people of Kandahar Province.

Members of Joint Task Force Afghanistan work with the soldiers and police of the Afghan National Security Forces to improve security and build a better future for Afghans.

Canada remains committed to bringing peace, stability and good governance to Afghanistan.

************************* Full SooToday.com coverage of this story

Sault soldier dies in Afghanistan Prime minister's statement on death of local soldier Defence minister's statement on Sgt John Faught 'The war touches our community again' 'May they know that they are not alone' 'Forever grateful for his selflessness and courage'