Oh, Canada: Some Gave All

Corporal Joshua Caleb Baker (DND picture)

One Canadian soldier killed and four injured in a training accident

CEFCOM NR – 10.002 - February 13, 2010

OTTAWA — One Canadian soldier was killed and four were injured in a training accident on a range located approximately 4 km northeast of Kandahar City. The accident took place at about 5:00 p.m., Kandahar time, on 12 February 2010.

Killed in the accident was Corporal Joshua Caleb Baker, a member of The Loyal Edmonton Regiment (4th Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry), from Edmonton, Alberta, and serving with the Kandahar Provincial Reconstruction Team.

This accident is non-battle related and an investigation by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service (CFNIS) is under way to determine the circumstances.

The four injured soldiers were evacuated by helicopter to the Role 3 Multi-National Medical Facility at the Kandahar Airfield. They are reported to be in stable condition and their names will not be released.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade at this sad time. The commitment and sacrifice of our soldiers and their loved ones are helping to make a difference in the lives of the people of Kandahar Province and build a better future for Afghans. Canada is committed to bringing peace, stability and good governance to Afghanistan.

–30–

And more from Canada.com:[www.canada.com/news/Canadian+soldier+killed+Afghanistan/2558703/story.html]

The death was announced at Kandahar Airfield by Brig.-Gen. Daniel Menard, commander of Canadian troops in Afghanistan. Shortly after Baker died, Canadian aviators launched the air force's largest air assault ever, inserting British, Estonian and Afghan forces into a Taliban-infested area in Helmand Province, about 160 kilometres west of Kandahar City. That operation, which is ongoing, involves more than 15,000 NATO and Afghan troops.

"This type of training is normal for soldiers in theatre and essential in helping them to maintain high levels on expertise," Menard said. An investigation was under way into how Baker died, he said.

"Joshua had a laugh rumoured to cure cancer," the general said. "No matter where you were or how down you got, his laugh would find your ears and bring a smile to your face."

Baker was described as "mentally tough, physically robust, and had a personality that made him a natural leader."...

Rest in Peace.