The Passing of Private Robert Costall

[FiveParadox]

While discussions and debates rage here at home concerning whether or not there should be a debate on the mission in Afghanistan in our House of Commons, another member of the Canadian Forces has had his life taken. Private Robert Costall lost his life defending his comrades admirably.

In response to this news, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, C.C., C.M.M., C.O.M., C.D., the Governor General of Canada and Commander-in-Chief of the Canadian Forces, issued this statement.

Her Excellency the Rt. Hon. Michaëlle Jean[/color], C.C., C.M.M., C.O.M., C.D.,]The members of the contingent stationed in Afghanistan today mourn the loss of their comrade-in-arms. But though they have been dealt a blow, their resolve is unchanged. Their constant vigilance and their unwavering belief in what they are accomplishing every day, in spite of the risks they face, are remarkable.

Click here to read the entire message in English.
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In addition, statements were issued by the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, P.C., M.P., the Member for Calgary Southwest and Prime Minister of Canada, the Honourable Bill Graham, P.C., M.P., the Member for Toronto Centre and Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition, and the Honourable Jack Layton, P.C., M.P., the Member for Toronto—Danforth and Leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada. Gilles Duceppe, M.P., the Member for Laurier—Sainte-Marie and Leader of the Bloc Québécois, has not as of yet issued a related statement.

Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper[/color], P.C., M.P.,]Our UN-mandated mission in Afghanistan is not without risk and we are so very proud of our brave men and women who daily face these dangers while carrying out their duties. They represent the best of our country and I am proud to honour them.

Click here to read the entire message in English.
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Hon. Bill Graham[/color], P.C., M.P.,]It is in times like these that we come together as a nation to appreciate the sacrifice that Private Costall and other soldiers have made on behalf of Canada. Canadians are grateful for the contribution to a peaceful and secure world the men and women of the Canadian Forces make everyday.

Click here to read the entire message in English.
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Hon. Jack Layton[/color], P.C., M.P.,]New Democrats join with Canadians across this country in support of our women and men of the Canadian Forces, those serving Canada at home and abroad. The loss of Private Costall is felt not only by his family, friends, colleagues, and community, but indeed by all Canadians as we grieve the loss of a young man killed representing our country with courage and honour.

Click here to read the entire message in English.
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:?: Sources
1. Click here for the Web site of the Governor General of Canada.
2. Click here for the Web site of the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada.
3. Click here for the Web site of the Liberal Party of Canada.
4. Click here for the Web site of the New Democratic Party of Canada.

 

[Johnny Utah]

Rest In Peace.

 

[LittleRunningGag]

What's really unfortunate, aside from his death obviously, is that this is just one more kid from the Edmonton base. Those guys have been hit hard.