APTN National News
GJOA HAVEN, Nunavut – A Canadian Ranger died Sunday in a snowmobile accident patroling about 24 kilometres outside of Gjoa Haven.
Donald Anguyoak was taking part in the Exercise Polar Passage that monitors snow and ice conditions along the Northwest Passage.
Anguyoak was a member of the Gjoa Haven Ranger patrol. He was acting as lead scout at the time of his death.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Corporal Donald Anguyoak at this difficult time,” said Lieutenant-General Peter Devlin of the Canadian Army in a statement. “We remember Donald for his passion about passing his knowledge and skills to the youth of Gjoa Haven through the Junior Canadian Ranger program.”
Prime Minister Stephen Harper also said he was saddened to learn of the death.
“On behalf of all Canadians, Laureen and I offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Corporal Donald Anguyoak, who lost his life in a snowmobile accident during Exercise Polar Passage, part of the Canadian Ranger Ocean Watch program monitoring snow and ice conditions along the Northwest Passage,” said Harper.
Harper said the death is a reminder of the “real dangers” the Rangers face.
“Corporal Anguyoak’s sacrifice in the name of defending his country will be honoured and remembered,” he said.
An investigation will be conducted to determine what happened.
The Rangers, also known as Acrtic Rangers, are a mainly made up of Aboriginal people that monitor the sovereignty of the Arctic as part of the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve.
How is this not front page news in all the major Canadian news agencies? This mans service and sacrifice should be celebrated and held up as a fine example for all Canadians everywhere and never be forgotten. Lest we forget…