Canadian soldier among 17 killed in Afghanistan

Master Corporal Byron Garth Greff was among 17 people killed by a suicide attack in Afghanistan recently.

Also killed were four other NATO NATO troops eight civilian contractors with NATO, three Afghan civilians and an Afghan police officer.

The NATO personnel killed in that attack were in Kandahar training the Afghan army.

The full text of a statement by the Minister of National Defence on the death of Master Corporal Greff.

************************* Statement by the Minister of National Defence on the Death of Master Corporal Byron Garth Greff

OTTAWA, ONTARIO - (Marketwire - Oct. 29, 2011) - The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Master Corporal Byron Garth Greff.

MCpl Greff died in Afghanistan today when insurgents attacked the vehicle in which he was traveling.

My heartfelt condolences and prayers go to his family, friends and comrades.

The Defence family mourns with you during this difficult time.

Canada is in Afghanistan at the request of the democratically elected Afghan government and is a partner in a United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission to bring peace and stability to the Afghan people.

We remain committed to training the Afghan National Security Forces so that Afghans can provide the security needed to build a better and brighter future for Afghans.

MCpl Greff gave his life while proudly serving Canada and bringing hope to a population that has seen hardship and turmoil.

We are all saddened by this loss and will remain forever grateful for his service.

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