Three Canadian soldiers killed and one injured in Afghanistan (Updated press release)

OTTAWA – Three Canadian soldiers were killed and one was injured when an improvised explosive device detonated near an armoured vehicle during a patrol in the Arghandab District. The incident occurred approximately 14 kilometers west of Kandahar City at about 9:00 a.m., Kandahar time, on 13 December 2008.

Killed in action were Corporal Thomas James Hamilton, Private John Michael Roy Curwin, and Private Justin Peter Jones. These soldiers were all from 2nd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment based at CFB Gagetown, New Brunswick, and served as members of the Force Protection Company of the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team.

Another soldier was injured in the blast and is currently in fair condition. The name of the injured soldier will not be released.

Members of Task Force Kandahar and the Provincial Reconstruction Team 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.

A photograph of Corporal Thomas James Hamilton, Private John Michael Roy Curwin, and Private Justin Peter Jones will be available on the Combat Camera website (search under last name) at www.combatcamera.ca

STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA

OTTAWA - Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of Corporal Thomas James Hamilton, Private John Michael Roy Curwin, and Private Justin Peter Jones, who were serving in Afghanistan:

“On behalf of all Canadians and of the Government of Canada, I would like to offer my deepest sympathies to the friends and families of Corporal Thomas James Hamilton, Private John Michael Roy Curwin, and Private Justin Peter Jones, who were killed when the vehicle they were riding in struck an IED while patrolling an area near Kandahar City. We also want to wish a quick recovery to their comrade who was injured in the same incident. This tragic incident demonstrates the considerable risk faced by the exceptional men and women of the Canadian Forces as they work to promote freedom, security and democracy in Afghanistan.

While profoundly saddened, Canada will not waver in its support for CF members, as they continue to work with Canadian civilians and our NATO allies in the international community’s mission to help Afghans rebuild their country. As Canada mourns the death of Corporal Hamilton, Private Curwin and Private Jones, we are grateful for their selfless service to this country, while helping to ensure a brighter future for the Afghan people.”

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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555

This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca

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