Four Canadian Armed Forces members killed during training in CFB Wainwright

THE Canadian Armed Forces on Sunday confirmed that four of their members lost their lives during a fire-related training incident at CFB Wainwright at approximately 4 p.m. MDT on October 17.

The members confirmed killed during this exercise:

* Sergeant Morgan Wong, from the Loyal Edmonton Regiment based at Edmonton, Alberta serving with 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry
* Private Shaun Farrell, from 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based at Edmonton, Alberta
* Private Aidan Goulding, from 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based at Edmonton, Alberta
* Private Hayden Lykkemark, from 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry based at Edmonton, Alberta
In addition to those who lost their lives, 39 Canadian Armed Forces members sustained injuries.

Members of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group from the 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, were conducting live fire training at CFB Wainwright as part of Exercise Apollo Shooter.

While conducting training a fire ignited and high wind speeds enabled the fire to grow and spread very rapidly overtaking the unit administrative area.

Prime Minister Mark Carney said the Canadian flag will fly at half-mast on federal buildings across Canada.

“All Canadians stand with the service members at CFB Wainwright, their families, and their community,” he said.

National Defence Minister David J. McGuinty said: “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the four Canadian Armed Forces members who lost their lives. Canada mourns with the entire Canadian Armed Forces community during this profoundly difficult time. We remain committed to supporting all those affected and to honouring the service, dedication and sacrifice of these soldiers.”

General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, said: “It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Sergeant Morgan Wong, Private Shaun Farrell, Private Aidan Goulding, and Private Hayden Lykkemark. On behalf of all our members, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues. We stand with them during this incredibly difficult time as we honour the service and dedication of our fallen. My thoughts are also with our injured members and their loved ones as they receive care and support. I am grateful to the first responders and medical teams who responded to this tragedy, and to everyone providing support to those affected.”

King Charles said in a message: “My wife and I were greatly shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic incident at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright. 

“Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives, and with all those who have been injured or otherwise affected at this most difficult time.  We extend our particular admiration and gratitude to the military and civilian emergency services, healthcare workers and all those who have responded with such courage and dedication in the most challenging circumstances.

“Above all, we send our special thoughts and prayers to the people of Alberta, and to the Canadian Armed Forces and their families.”