Canadian Soldier Dies in Afghanistan Fall

by C. L. Cook

A Canadian soldier died early today in Afghanistan, the result of an apparent fall from his cliff top position. Private Sebastian Courcy became the fifth Canadian soldier to die in action this month, and the 43 NATO forces member killed.

 

Pte. Sébastien Courcy from 2nd battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment, based in Quebec City, was killed Thursday in Afghanistan. (Department of National Defence)

 

Courcy, who arrived in-country in April was taking part in Operation Panther's Claw, the biggest offensive operation since the early days of the invasion. Panther's Claw is meant to break the Taliban hold on Panjwaii district. Canadian Forces spokespeople say the incident occurred approximately 17 kilometres southwest of Kandahar City.

 

Pte. Sébastien Courcy was attached to 2nd Battalion, Royal 22nd Regiment, based in Quebec City, was 26 years old, and is the 125th Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan since 2001.

 

In a statement to the press, Canada's ranking officer in Afghanistan, Brigadier General, Jonathan Vance said;

 

"During this operation, Sébastien fell from the position he was occupying on a piece of high ground, resulting in his death."

 

Canada's prime minister, Stephen Harper commented;