Canada in Afghanistan

[Brian Gough]

The war in Afghanistan has claimed another Canadian, with the 154th soldier killed in combat Saturday.

Cpl. Steve Martin, from 3rd Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment, was killed Saturday 12:30 p.m. local time by a bomb detonated while he was on patrol in the Panjwaii district of Kandahar Province.

Martin was serving with 1st Battalion, Royal 22e Regiment Battle Group, based at CFB Valcartier, Que.

"Our thoughts are with the families and friends of our fallen soldier during this difficult time," said the department of national defence in a statement.

"We will not forget the sacrifice of this soldier as we continue to bring security and hope to the people of Kandahar Province."

Prime Minister Stephen Harper also expressed his condolences at Canada's latest war casualty.

"Corporal Martin was a brave Canadian who made the ultimate sacrifice while proudly serving his country," he said in a statement.

"Thanks to Canadian Forces members like him, we continue to make real progress in Afghanistan, rebuilding the country and contributing to the peace and security of its people.

"We will never forget Corporal Martin's bravery and his sacrifice to make life better for others."

Martin's death pushed the NATO mission's overall death toll to 700 this year alone.