Statement by the Minister of National Defence on the Death of Corporal James (Jim) Hayward Arnal

July 19, 2008 1:26 PM EDT

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 19, 2008) - The Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier:

"On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Corporal James (Jim) Hayward Arnal who died yesterday in Afghanistan. I also wish a quick recovery to the other soldier injured in this incident.

Just before midnight, on July 18, 2008, an improvised explosive device detonated near their foot patrol in Panjwayi District.

The United Nations-mandated mission in Afghanistan is a challenging one, but these challenges will not deter us from helping Afghans reclaim their lives and build a free and democratic society.

Corporal Arnal was a brave soldier. Canada will remain forever grateful for his service, and we are saddened by his loss."

Corporal Arnal was an infanteer serving with the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry Battle Group based in Shilo, Manitoba.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
        Information: 1-866-377-0811
        After hours: 613-792-2973
        www.forces.gc.ca

Source: Department of National Defence

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