OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 07/05/09 -- The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, issued the following statement today on the death of a Canadian Soldier.

"I wish to express my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Master-Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud.

Master-Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud was a valiant and courageous Canadian soldier who died in service to his country and the world community after being wounded in Afghanistan during a patrol June 23.

His sacrifice will never be forgotten and increases Canada's resolve to help the Afghan people in a UN-sanctioned, NATO-led mission.

Thanks to Master-Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud, progress and change is taking place in Afghanistan."

Master-Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud is from the 2e Batallion, Royal 22e Regiment based at Canadian Forces Base Valcartier, near Quebec City.