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Injured Canadian soldier arrives home in Ottawa
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Date: Thu. Jul. 6 2006 11:38 PM ET
A Canadian reservist who was injured in a rocket attack on the international coalition base in Kandahar one week ago arrived at the Ottawa International airport on Thursday.
Master Bombardier Bounyarat Tanaphon Makthepharak, of the 30 Field Regiment Ottawa, grinned broadly as his stretcher was wheeled down a ramp and onto the tarmac.
The 30-year-old was listed in critical condition after a rocket attack on last Friday.
Makthepharak was one of 10 soldiers who were injured in the attack, and suffered the most serious injuries of the group. He was immediately flown to the U.S. military hospital in Landstuhl, Germany for treatment.
CTV's Rosemary Thompson was on the base as Makthepharak's plane landed, and as his mother waited anxiously for his return.
"He's fine, he's obviously recovering. He's been in serious condition, but apparently he was walking today in Germany which has given a great sign of hope to his family," Thompson told CTV Newsnet.
Makthepharak, who is affectionately known as 'Mack' by his fellow soldiers, has done three tours in Afghanistan, Thompson said.
"His mother gave a statement to the media saying that he was very proud to join the Canadian military as a young man and part of it is because of his father's military history. He was the commander of the Laotian army. He wanted to serve in his father's footsteps."
"She says in her statement that she's thinking about him so much and she hopes that he comes home safe and sound to bring success and honour to her home of Canada," Thompson said as she waited for Makthepharak to exit the plane.
The rocket hit a section of the base where coalition forces including Canadian and American soldiers, civilians and base employees often gather.
A second rocket also struck the base but did not cause any casualties.
Taliban forces have claimed responsibility for the attack, but other details are scarce as military officials have ordered a restriction on what can be reported.
More than 20 rockets have struck the Kandahar base since February. However, this is the first time the rocket attacks have resulted in any casualties on the base.
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I fail to see just what a minister could learn by an on site visit that he couldn't get from people who are actual experts in the various fields of work involved. It is doubtful that he is any sort of nuclear engineer or expert in construction. Just another photo op...
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