Canadian Armed Forces Mourns Loss of Senior Officer in Belgium

The Canadian Armed Forces is mourning the loss of Lieutenant-Colonel Kent Miller, a senior officer with Joint Task Force Ukraine, who passed away from medical complications on November 25 in Casteau, Belgium. His death was not related to operational activities.

Lt. Col. Miller, an Engineering Officer with 24 years of service, was deployed as part of Operation UNIFIER in a planning and coordination capacity. At the time of his passing, he was serving with the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe. He previously held the role of Commanding Officer of the 41 Combat Engineer Regiment in Alberta.

Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander of Canadian Joint Operations Command, expressed his condolences. “We are all deeply saddened by the death of Lieutenant-Colonel Kent Miller, who passed away on November 25, 2024,” said Lt. Gen. Boivin. “Lieutenant-Colonel Miller was a father, a husband and a comrade, and his loss will be felt by many.”

Lieutenant-Colonel Cole Petersen, Commander of Joint Task Force Ukraine, paid tribute to Miller, reflecting on their time serving together. “Kent and I served in Afghanistan together, as well as in 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Peterson. “I am more than saddened at the loss of my friend and brother in arms. My thoughts are with his family at this time.”

Defence Minister Bill Blair also extended condolences to Miller’s family, friends, and colleagues, acknowledging his remarkable service and dedication to Canada.

Lt. Col. Miller’s distinguished career and his contributions to Canada’s Armed Forces are being remembered with deep respect as tributes continue to pour in from comrades and leaders alike