Ottawa, ON—The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on the Anniversary of the Conclusion of Canada’s Mission in Afghanistan:
“Nearly a quarter century ago, our nation was in shock after a heinous attack on our neighbour and closest ally. Among the thousands killed on September 11, 2001 were twenty-four Canadians – while countless more lost colleagues, family and friends.
“Mere months later, after the only invocation of Article 5 in the history of the North Atlantic Treaty, the Canadian Armed Forces was on the ground in Afghanistan. Shoulder-to-shoulder with the Americans and our shared allies, some forty thousand Canadians would serve in that theatre over more than a decade.
“Like their forebearers in the World Wars and Korea, our sailors, soldiers and aviators distinguished themselves by their courage and professionalism. Canada’s mission in Afghanistan was defined by heroes like Bryce Keller – a Corporal from the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry who died defending his comrades in August of 2006.
“Posthumously awarded the Medal of Military Valour, stories like Corporal Keller’s inspired Canadians from all walks of life. Prime Minister Stephen Harper noted how ordinary citizens ‘came out in force, united in appreciation, to honour the bravery, heroism, strength and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom and security’.
“Eleven years ago today, a flag-lowering ceremony in Kabul brought our efforts to an end.
“As we commemorate this important anniversary, we pause to remember the 158 Canadians killed in the service of their country. And we turn our thoughts also to many others, who returned with injuries seen and unseen. Their sacrifice can never be forgotten.
“Lest we forget.”