Over the past few days we have seen violent and senseless acts claim the lives of two members of the Canadian Armed Forces. First, on Monday, Warrant officer Patrice Vincent died after being struck by a car in what was determined to be a purposeful attack. Then, on Wednesday, Corporal Nathan Frank Cirillo was shot and killed by an assailant who then attacked and wounded others at Parliament Hill, before being killed by security forces. We wish to express our condolences the family and friends of these men, and to wish a speedy recovery to those injured in both attacks.

CACEE has a long history with the Canadian Armed Forces, dating back to 1946 when Veterans Affairs Canada was one of the founding organizations of the group we now call CACEE, and we are proud to claim membership from among the brave men and women who serve in our armed forces. As a national association, we have members drawn from across this country, and all of us are shaken by the tragic circumstances of this week. Equally, and because we are a national association, we know that community and goodwill will provide the strength we need to endure this time, and that our commitments to equality and justice will guide our response.

We should also take this time to express our concern and best wishes to our members and friends in the National Capital Region and in Quebec - please know that you are in our thoughts.