The Department of National Defence this
afternoon issued the following statement on
behalf of the family of Lt. William Turner
(left):
EDMONTON - Toyo Turner, the sister of Lieutenant
William Turner, who was killed on April 22, 2006
while serving in Afghanistan, wishes to issue
the following statement to the media:
"I want to first extend my deepest sympathy to
the families of Cpl. Randy Payne, Bombardier
Myles Mansell, and Cpl. Matthew Dinning. I share
in the grief that you are all feeling, and want
you to know that my thoughts and prayers are
with you during this difficult time. I want the
Canadian public to know that my brother died
doing what he loved and doing what he truly
believed in. Bill knew that he was making a
difference to the people in Afghanistan and
wanted to continue this effort despite the
obstacles that our troops face. Our family is
going to continue supporting our troops, Bill's
second family, who remain in Afghanistan. We are
committed to supporting what he so strongly
believed in.
I also want to send a message to our troops.
Bill spoke so highly of all of you, particularly
those soldiers in A Company who supported him
after Captain Trevor Greene was injured. He met
a lot of wonderful people, and really
appreciated the connections he made with all of
you, including the Americans who shared his love
for NCAA basketball. I want you to shake off
what has happened to your comrades and focus on
keeping yourself and each other safe so you can
come home to your families. Bill's family
continues to be behind you all 100% and believe
in what you are accomplishing. Thank you for
supporting us."