Bombardier Jérémie Ouellet - 1 RCHA

Shilo, MB - The following is a statement from Lieutenant-Colonel Tim Bishop, Commanding Officer of the 1st Regiment, Royal Canadian Horse Artillery:

"The Regiment learned of the tragic death of Bombardier Ouellet yesterday and we are in the process of caring for his family in Matane, Quebec as well as his Regimental family here and deployed in Afghanistan. The family is our first and only focus at the moment and they will be looked after.

Jérémie had been with the Regiment for nearly 4 years. He was well known around the Regiment for his ever-present smile and his sense of humour. He was a very proud francophone and his enthusiasm in sharing his language with his peers was well known. He was also a gifted artist and several of his close friends have drawings that were rendered by him and will be treasured forever. He was a dedicated professional soldier and will be sadly missed by all who knew him within the Regiment.

The circumstances of his death are currently under investigation by the National Investigative Service and as such we will make no comment in that regard.

Our thoughts and prayers go to all members of his family and we will grieve with them and surround them with all the support they need at this difficult time."