Statement

From the Prime Minister's Web Site (http://www.pm.gc.ca/)

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STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA

July 7, 2008
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of Private Colin William Wilmot:

"I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Private Colin William Wilmot, who died in Afghanistan on July 5. The thoughts and prayers of the nation are with them during this time of great sorrow.

"As a medic working in Kandahar province, Private Wilmot was strongly committed to treating members of both the Canadian Forces and Afghan National Security Forces injured in combat. He participated in numerous security patrols with his fellow soldiers to ensure that immediate medical assistance was available if someone got hurt. Tragically, he was critically wounded on such a patrol in the Panjwayi District when an explosive device detonated.

"The dedication and bravery of Private Wilmot will long be remembered by Canadians and Afghans alike. We mourn the loss of this exceptional Canadian."

Private Wilmot was a medic serving with the Health Services Support Unit in Afghanistan and was attached to the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group. His home unit was 1 Field Ambulance, based in Edmonton, Alberta.

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The Prime Minister's Office - Communications
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