Canadian Joint Operations Commander visits Canadian troops

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

11.12.2013

Courtesy Story

International Security Assistance Force HQ Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan – Lt. Gen. Stuart A. Beare, Commander of the Canadian Joint Operations Command, completed a three-day engagement with Canadian troops serving as part of the International Security Assistance Force and alongside Afghan partners.

“I am heartened to see how much progress the Afghan National Security Forces have made over the years – enabled by the collective service and sacrifice of the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces, our international partners and Afghans themselves,” Beare said. “While challenges still exist, progress is being made. It was a privilege to have been here to recognize the efforts, contributions, and successes of so many on Remembrance Day - the Canadian Armed Forces’ last in Afghanistan.”

During his visit, Beare met with senior officials from the Afghan ministries of Defense and Interior, as well as those at ISAF and the Canadian Embassy. He also visited with Canadian troops and led the final Canadian Remembrance Day ceremony in Afghanistan.

More than 39,000 Canadian troops have served in Afghanistan since October 2001, 158 of whom made the ultimate sacrifice. The Canadian troop contribution peaked during its combat mission between 2006 and 2011. Since 2011, Canada shifted its focus to a train and advise mission based mainly in the Kabul area. Throughout its engagement in Afghanistan, Canada undertook numerous senior leadership roles, to include command positions at ISAF HQ, NTM-A, and Regional Command- South.

• Date Taken: 11.12.2013
• Date Posted: 11.12.2013 19:00
• Story ID: 116628
• Location: KABUL, AF