Mr. Speaker, yesterday at Edmonton's Skyreach Centre, a memorial service was held for the four soldiers who died in theatre in Afghanistan on April 17, 2002.
The solemn ceremony acknowledged the supreme sacrifice made by four soldiers. Richly deserved tributes were paid to Corporal Ainsworth Dyer, Private Nathan Smith, Private Richard Green, and Sergeant Marc Léger.
The Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry, which incidentally served in my riding and in all of the Montérégie area in 1998 during the ice storm, brought out all possible military pomp and circumstance to pay tribute to their fallen comrades.
In the opinion of many, this ceremony was a first in the annals of the Canadian military. Four members of the military led the march bearing helmets and weapons symbolizing the four who lost their lives while on duty.
Needless to say, this was an emotional event for the 16,000 in attendance, who were overwhelmed with sadness and feelings of great solidarity in honouring these soldiers.
The Bloc Quebecois extends its condolences to the families and friends of these worthy men. Rest assured that their contribution and the gift of their lives will never be forgotten.