Soldier killed in Afghanistan originally from Sudbury

An improvised explosive device, most commonly known as an IED, has claimed the life of Martin "Marty" Goudreault in Afghanistan. He was 35.

According to media reports, Goudreault was originally from Sudbury. He was based in Edmonton, Alta., and served in the 1st Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.

Goudreault and other soldiers were on foot patrol about 15 kilometres southwest of Kandahar city, in the Panjway District, when the IED was detonated around 6:30 a.m. Kandahar time.

Master Warrant Officer Brian McKenelley of the 2nd Battalion Irish Regiment of Canada, said he did not know Goudreault himself.

When he heard about the soldier's death, McKenelley made a few phone calls, and found out that Goudreault was born in Sudbury, but moved to New Liskeard with his parents. Goudreault's parents still live in New Liskeard, he said.

“It is a sad day when something like that does happen,” McKenelley said. “Unfortunately, with the type of work we deal in, situations like this happen. We do everything we can to avoid it, but there's some days we just can't do anything about it.”

Goudreault was on his third tour in Afghanistan, and was a 15-year veteran of the Canadian Forces.

"Sergeant Martin Goudreault served to help build a safe and stable future for Afghans, and he did so with honour and pride," Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, said in a statement.

"Sergeant Martin Goudreault's sacrifice will not be forgotten and it will not deter us from continuing to help Afghans rebuild their country."

According to the media, arrangements to return Goudreault to Canada have not yet been made. He is the 147th Canadian soldier to die while serving in Afghanistan.