Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada

December 24, 2009

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian soldier in Afghanistan:
 
“I join all Canadians in offering my sincere and heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family and loved ones of Lieutenant Andrew Nuttall, who was killed today in Afghanistan.  The impact of this news is especially profound during the holiday season and will be felt in households across the country.
 
“Lieutenant Nuttall was a professional soldier who was dedicated to providing stability for the Afghan people.
 
“This same terrible incident took the life of an Afghan National Army Soldier and injured an ISAF interpreter.  I also extend my sympathies to their families and friends.
 
“Canadians are proud of our military men and women.  We support their families, and all those who serve and sacrifice to protect the interests and values of Canadians.  We will not waver in our goal of helping Afghans rebuild their country as a stable, democratic and self-sufficient society.
 
“Lieutenant Nuttall’s sacrifice will not be forgotten.”