Sapper Steven Marshall
Sapper Steven Marshall
Sapper Steven Henry Marshall was born 12 January 1985 in Calgary, Alberta. He joined the Canadian Forces in Edmonton on 27 June 2007, and upon completion of basic training, Spr Marshall joined 1 Combat Engineering Regiment. He soon deployed on Task Force 3-09 as a member of 11 Field Squadron attached to 1 PPCLI, Task Force 3-09 Battle Group.
He was killed on 30 October 2009 by an Improvised Explosive Device that detonated near his dismounted patrol, while conducting operations about 10 kilometers southwest of Kandahar City in the Panjwai district of Afghanistan.
Spr Marshall was regarded by his peers and comrades as “the kind of guy who would do anything for you and ask nothing in return”, the kind of guy who would strive to live his life with courage, dedication, and an uplifting spirit. He was regarded as a soldier’s soldier, a young man who was passionate about hockey and always wore a grin. Spr Marshall, was devoted to his family and friends, and to his family, he was a loving brother and son.
Family Statement
Steven Marshall was a dedicated soldier's soldier, a loving brother and son, a devoted family man and a loyal friend who died doing what he loved. A devoted Calgary Flames fan, Steven was a competitive and skilled hockey player undeniably in love with the game.
Always quick with a laugh or a joke, his trademark was certainly his ability to tell stories and show off his impersonation skills that always made us laugh. Not only could Steven brighten up a room; he was the life of it too.
Steven was an attentive listener, sensitive, bold and goofy at times; he was truly a breath of fresh air. His family was of utmost importance to him, and he always made an effort to put us first. The slightest gestures such as letting him sit in the comfy chair or taking him out for lunch would be met with a big glow of appreciation.
Steven was very excited about what military life had to offer. While he was training for his tour he would talk endlessly about what he learned and he would eagerly say "I wonder what I will get to do next?" Whether it was his passion for the outdoors, his thirst for adventure or his enthusiasm to travel, Steven found his niche in the Army. He was eager to learn and set for success; we all thought he would be able to teach others one day.
To Steven's fellow soldiers serving in Afghanistan, we would like to express our thanks for their friendship to him and their continued service in a mission in which he believed. You were his family too and he held you close in his heart. Steven will be missed terribly by his family, friends and many people who loved him and were fortunate enough to have known him in this life. Despite our grief, we are immensely proud of Steven as such an incredible young man.
You lived your life with such honour and pride. We looked up to you and will strive to live our lives as you did, with courage, dedication and an uplifting spirit. We will miss your big bear hugs, your beautiful smile, and the special way you loved all of us. You will forever live in our hearts, remain in our memories. We will be with you in our dreams.
CHIMO
Sincerely,
The Family of Steven Marshall