Mr. Speaker, I rise today not only as a member of Parliament from Vancouver Island, but as a veteran who understands the quiet weight of service. I stand here to honour Warrant Officer George Hohl, who tragically passed while deployed in Latvia on Operation Reassurance. His body was returned to Canadian soil on Friday. George served with distinction for nearly 20 years. His commitment to duty touched not only the Canadian Armed Forces, but all Canadians who value quiet courage.
This summer, I visited CFB Edmonton, where George served. I witnessed the honour and excellence our soldiers carry. George embodied that spirit.
To his wife Michelle, his comrades and the defence community, we stand with them, we mourn with them and we honour him. Let us remember Warrant Officer Hohl not only for his service, but for the values he lived: duty, honour and sacrifice.
I say fair winds to Warrant Officer Hohl.