Three Canadian soldiers die in Afghanistan

NEWS RELEASES

DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENCE

OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER

************************* Three Canadian Forces personnel killed and two injured in Afghanistan OTTAWA, ON -(March 4) - Three Canadian Forces personnel were killed and two were injured when an improvised explosive device detonated near an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District.

The incident occurred northwest of Kandahar City at around 5:40 p.m., Kandahar time, on March 3.

The CF personnel were conducting security operations in the area when the explosion occurred.

Killed in action were Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, from The Lincoln and Welland Regiment, Corporal Dany Olivier Fortin, from 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron at 3 Wing Bagotville, and Corporal Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, from 2 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Squadron.

The injured CF personnel were evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at Kandahar Airfield.

They are in good and fair condition, and their names will not be released.

Members of Task Force Kandahar are committed to improving security and increasing development in Kandahar Province.

We are all thinking of the family and friends of our fallen comrades during this sad time, but are determined to continue working with our Afghan and international partners towards a better future for the people of Afghanistan.

************************* Statement by the prime minister of Canada

OTTAWA – Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the deaths of three Canadian soldiers:

"To the family and friends of Warrant Officer Dennis Raymond Brown, Corporal Danny Olivier Fortin, and Corporal Kenneth Chad O'Quinn, who died yesterday in Afghanistan, I offer my deepest condolences.

Our entire country stands behind you in these most difficult and trying times. I also hope for a full and quick recovery for the two other Canadian soldiers injured in the attack.

These soldiers served valiantly alongside their comrades while helping to build a stable Afghanistan.

Our Canadian Forces members in Afghanistan face an enemy that will go to any length to undermine progress in building a democratic and self-sustaining society.

The courage demonstrated by these soldiers speaks volumes to their dedication to Canada and to creating a better country for the Afghan people.

The commitment of our service men and women to this goal is not diminished by these attacks.

Their participation in the United Nations-mandated mission is a true reflection of Canadian values: helping those in need and defending the interests of Afghan citizens.

We are making a difference and the Government of Canada stands proudly with the Canadian Forces as they strive to protect Canadians, our interests and our values.

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

Let us never forget Warrant Officer Brown, Corporal Fortin and Corporal O'Quinn, whose sacrifices served to make life better for others.”

*************************