Mr. Speaker, in April, I had the sad occasion to pay my respects to Corporal Randy Payne who was killed in Afghanistan. His name has been inscribed on the cenotaph in Gananoque where he grew up. In early November, a tree will be dedicated in his honour on Remembrance Road in Mallorytown where he lived and his wife, Jodi, and his children live.
Later this afternoon, I will be in Kemptville attending a memorial service for Private Blake Williamson who was killed in Afghanistan just last week. He, too, will continue to be honoured in his hometown.
Both these men were dedicated, honourable, courageous and personable. They have both been recognized as examples to their peers as they were growing up.
When Afghans no longer live in fear and poverty, we will continue to remember the role played by Corporal Randy Payne and Private Blake Williamson and the fact that they made the ultimate sacrifice. We will continue to thank them.