Mr. Speaker, on June 7, James Ratcliffe, a volunteer firefighter from Hudson died during a water-rescue training exercise on Lake of Two Mountains. He was only 20 years old.
James was enrolled in a bachelor of arts program in Ottawa. He was very involved in his community, where he had, among other things, raised funds for the purchase of the rescue boat.
I would like to express my profound sadness to his family. James' life had meaning and purpose: to look after the well-being of others. He will be sadly missed by his family, friends, fellow firefighters and the entire community.
This incident is a reminder of the risks faced by these men and women whose mission is to ensure our protection.
Thank you, James, and farewell.