[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 16 (Monday, April 22, 2002)]
[Page 657]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Death of Canadian Troops in Afghanistan

April 18, 2002

    All Americans are deeply saddened by the deaths yesterday of four 
brave Canadian military personnel in Afghanistan and by the injuries 
sustained by eight others. I immediately expressed to Prime Minister 
Chretien my deepest sorrow and sympathy at this tragic accident. 
Canada's fallen heroes and their families are in our hearts and prayers.
    Canada is a vital member of a mighty coalition against terrorism and 
hatred. It is shouldering great burdens and making tremendous sacrifices 
to make the world a safer place for all people. It is doing so in 
defense of the values that define the Canadian nation and that unite our 
two peoples.
    As I told the Prime Minister, we will work together with Canada in a 
thorough and timely investigation to determine exactly how yesterday's 
tragedy in Afghanistan occurred. We will draw every possible lesson from 
what happened and do everything we can to protect coalition forces 
engaged in this vitally important mission.