Canadian sailor killed by improvised explosive device

Department of National Defence
News Release

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OTTAWA - (May 4) - One Canadian Forces member was killed after an improvised explosive device detonated during a dismounted operation, about 25 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City, in the Panjwayi District, at approximately 4:40 p.m. Kandahar time on May 3.

Killed in action was Petty Officer Second Class Craig Blake a member of Fleet Diving Unit (Atlantic), based in Shearwater, Nova Scotia. He was serving with Task Force 1-10.

We are all thinking of the family and friends of our Canadian fallen comrade during this sad time.

The commitment and sacrifice of our military and their loved ones are helping to make a difference in the lives of the people of Kandahar Province.

Together, Afghan National Security Forces and Joint Task Force Afghanistan continue to maintain the initiative in Kandahar Province.

Canada in partnership with the Afghan government and ISAF remain committed to improving the security situation in order to set the conditions for reconstruction and development in the region.


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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada

Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian Forces member:

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Petty Officer Second Class Craig Blake, who died after an improvised explosive device detonated during a dismounted operation. On behalf of the Canadian people, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time.

Petty Officer Blake was a brave Canadian who made the ultimate sacrifice while proudly serving his country. Thanks to Canadian Forces members like Petty Officer Blake, we are making progress in Afghanistan in creating a better future for the Afghan people.

Canada is in Afghanistan at the request of the democratically elected Afghan government and as part of a United Nations-mandated, NATO-led mission, helping the Afghan people rebuild their country and its institutions. Our Canadian Forces members face this difficult task, in an extremely harsh environment, with courage and honour, and serve as a representation of Canadian values to the world.

This is a loss for Canada and the Canadian Forces - but it was not in vain. With the help of the international community, Afghans are rebuilding their communities and improving their lives.

Let us never forget Petty Officer Blake, who died trying to make life better for others."