Canadian Soldier Missing in Latvia During NATO Mission
A concerning development has emerged from Eastern Europe, where a Canadian Armed Forces member deployed in Latvia has been reported missing. The Department of National Defence confirmed that Warrant Officer George Hohl, a vehicle technician with the 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron based in Edmonton, was last seen earlier this week in Ādaži, Latvia. His disappearance has prompted an urgent search and investigation led by local authorities.
According to the statement, Latvian police are taking the lead in the search, while the Canadian Forces Military Police and NATO’s Multinational Brigade are providing support. Officials stressed that “all available resources” are being deployed in an effort to locate Hohl. This includes coordination between Canadian, Latvian, and allied military personnel stationed in the region. The Department of National Defence emphasized that Hohl’s next of kin have already been notified and are receiving ongoing support during this difficult time.
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The deployment in Latvia is part of Canada’s contribution to NATO’s ongoing mission to strengthen security on the alliance’s eastern flank. Hundreds of Canadian soldiers are currently stationed in the country, forming part of the multinational battlegroup tasked with deterring potential aggression in the region. The presence of Canadian troops has been a consistent commitment since 2017, and earlier this year Canada extended the mission until at least 2029.
While officials have not released further details about the circumstances of Hohl’s disappearance, the situation has raised concern both at home and abroad. Families of deployed soldiers are following updates closely, as the uncertainty surrounding a missing member adds an emotional layer to an already demanding mission. The Canadian military community, particularly those connected to the Edmonton-based squadron, is said to be rallying together in support.
Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, commander of Canadian Joint Operations Command, highlighted the seriousness of the situation, noting that search operations are active and ongoing. He underscored that cooperation with local Latvian authorities remains strong, ensuring that the investigation is being pursued thoroughly and without delay.
This incident also comes at a time when Canada’s role in Latvia is expanding, with promises of additional troops and resources to bolster NATO efforts in Eastern Europe. It serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by Canadian service members stationed abroad—not only in terms of military readiness, but also in the unpredictability of daily life far from home.
As search efforts continue, attention remains fixed on Latvia, where both military and civilian authorities are working side by side. The hope, shared by Canadian officials, military families, and NATO partners, is that Warrant Officer Hohl will be found safe. Until then, the mission in Latvia continues, even as it carries a shadow of uncertainty with the absence of one of its own.
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