NR-06.049 - August 12, 2006

Corporal Andrew James Eykelenboom was killed by a suicide bomber in a vehicle attack near the town of Spin Boldak, approximately 100 km southeast of Kandahar City. The attack occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. Kandahar time August 11, 2006.

Corporal Andrew Eykelenboom was travelling in an armoured “G Wagon” (Gelaendenwagen) Light Utility Vehicle as part of a resupply convoy heading north from Spin Boldak to Kandahar Airfield on Highway 4 when the suicide bomber exploded his vehicle near the convoy.

A Taliban spokesman claimed responsibility for the attack, which came a few weeks before Eykelenboom was scheduled to return home.

OTTAWA - The Honourable Gordon O'Connor, Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement today on the death of Corporal Andrew James Eykelenboom, a member of the medical unit, 1 Field Ambulance, in Edmonton.

It is with profound sadness that I learned this morning of the death of Corporal Eykelenboom, who was killed by a suicide bomber approximately 100 km southeast of Kandahar City.

Corporal Eykelenboom was traveling towards Kandahar Airfield as part of a re-supply convoy when the attack occurred, and our nation grieves his loss.

My sympathies go to Corporal Eykelenboom's family and friends.

Canadians stand united in pride and gratitude behind Corporal Eykelenboom, and we will not forget his courage in the face of danger. While there are risks involved in this selfless work, our Canadian Forces members are fully prepared for the demands they face.

Canadians everywhere honour their unwavering commitment to our country and I commend their calling to this noble purpose.