CFB TRENTON - The body of a Canadian soldier who had already served two tours in Afghanistan and wanted to go back for a third is to arrive in eastern Ontario this afternoon.
Relative and dignitaries are expected at CFB Trenton to meet the Canadian Forces plane carrying the body of Cpl. James Hayward Arnal. Arnal was the 88th Canadian soldier to die during the Afghan mission. He was killed by a roadside bomb while on a foot patrol in Panjwai district near Kandahar city.
He was a member of 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry based in Shilo, Man.
Arnal was born in Kelvington, Sask., but grew up in Winnipeg, where his family still lives.
He had left a career in the information-technology sector to join the military and he thrived in the Forces.
"He couldn't wait to get on our current task force, and he was already trying to butt in line to get on the next tour," said his battle group commander, Lt.-Col. Dave Corbould.
"That's the kind of adventurous spirit and sense of duty he had."
