Statement by Portraits of Honour Chairman on the death of Canada’s 157^th fallen hero in Afghanistan 

Portraits of Honour Chairman, Roger Hebblethwaite issued the following statement today concerning the death of a member of the Canadian Forces in Afghanistan:

“On behalf of the Portraits of Honour National Tour committee and the members of Kin Canada, we offer our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Master Corporal Francis Roy who died yesterday in Afghanistan while serving under the Canadian Special Operations Regiment.

“This death occurs as our troops are wrapping up their combat mission and it is a poignant reminder that although our role in Afghanistan is transitioning from one of combat to one of training, our Canadian Forces troops continue to face significant stress and certain dangers.

“It is also a reminder of the tremendous personal sacrifices being made by the brave men and women who proudly serve in our Canadian military and by the families and friends who remain behind while supporting them.

“Master Corporal Roy will join the other 156 brave men and women whose faces are depicted on the Portraits of Honour mural. 

“Our Portraits of Honour National Tour, which is currently travelling across Canada, is bringing Canadians together to remember, honour and celebrate all of those who have lost their lives while protecting our country and bringing peace and freedom to many others in our world.”