2010-08-30 22:49:03 -

OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 08/30/10 -- It was with great sadness that my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I learned today of the death of Corporal Brian Pinksen from 2nd Battalion, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment, based in Corner Brook Newfoundland, as a result of injuries he sustained on August 22, 2010, when an improvised explosive device detonated during a patrol approximately 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar, in the Panjwa'i District.





This tragedy is a painful reminder of the risks and dangers that soldiers deployed to this turbulent region face on a daily basis. It also shows us the unwavering courage, sense of duty and determination of our fellow Canadians who are serving with the Canadian Forces. They are contributing to the efforts being jointly led by NATO member countries and under the authority of the United Nations, to support the people of Afghanistan, who aspire to equality, justice, peace and prosperity. Corporal Brian Pinksen's comrades-in-arms will continue and complete this difficult mission with the same conviction and generous spirit we have always known them to have.



We join all Canadians in offering our sincerest condolences and our deepest sympathy to Corporal Brian Pinksen's family, loved ones and colleagues. Our thoughts are with you. We will never forget him.



Michaelle Jean




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Marie-Pierre Belanger
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