NEWS RELEASES
DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENCE
OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER
************************* Canadian soldier dies in hospital from injuries sustained in Afghanistan
OTTAWA, ON (August 30, 2010) - A Canadian soldier, who sustained injuries in Afghanistan, passed away at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany today.
Corporal (Cpl) Brian Pinksen from 2nd Battalion, The Royal Newfoundland Regiment, based in Corner Brook Newfoundland, was serving in Afghanistan with the 1st Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.
Cpl Pinksen sustained his injuries when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated during a routine patrol in the Panjwa'i District, southwest of Kandahar City at approximately 1:40 p.m., Kandahar time on August 22, 2010.
Cpl Pinksen was treated on scene and evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at Kandahar Airfield then subsequently moved to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Centre in Germany.
He arrived in Ramstein, Germany on August 25 and succumbed to his injuries earlier today at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade during this very difficult time.
We will not forget Cpl Pinksen's sacrifice as we continue to bring security and hope to the people of Kandahar Province.
Canada in partnership with the government of Afghanistan, the Afghan National Security Forces and ISAF remain committed to improving the security situation in order to set the conditions for reconstruction and development in the region.
Joint Task Force Afghanistan, continues to be fully engaged in an initiative that serves to gradually enhance security, to strengthen governance and to expand the government's authority in key areas of Kandahar Province.
************************* Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier:
“It is with utmost sorrow that I extend the condolences of all Canadians to the family and friends of Corporal Brian Pinksen, a brave soldier who died due to injuries sustained in Afghanistan.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time of loss.
“Canadians are grateful for his service and are proud of the contributions of all the men and women in uniform.
“Our government is showing leadership, alongside our international partners, in this ongoing effort to help the Afghan people achieve peace and stability.
"This UN-mandated, NATO-led mission is helping rebuild their country and its institutions.
“I join with all Canadians who stand behind our men and women of the Canadian Forces as they courageously risk their lives every day to bring positive change to the people of Afghanistan and to save lives.
“Corporal Pinksen served Canada valiantly, and deserves the gratitude and respect of his nation.”
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