N.L. soldier hit by Afghan bomb dies in Germany

A 21-year-old soldier from western Newfoundland died Monday morning at a military hospital in Germany,more than a weekafter he was injured by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.

Cpl. Brian Pinksen, from 2nd Battalion, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, based in Corner Brook, western Newfoundland, was serving in Afghanistan with the 1st Battalion, the Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.

Pinksen suffered injuries to his limbs and internal organs Aug. 22when an improvised explosive device detonated near him during a patrolsouthwest of Kandahar.

He was flown to the U.S. military's Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany for treatment but died at the hospital after his heart failed.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our fallen comrade during this very difficult time," saidthe military in a news release Monday afternoon. "We will not forget Cpl. Pinksen's sacrifice as we continue to bring security and hope to the people of Kandahar province."

Prime Minister Stephen Harper also issued a statement reacting to the death.

"It is with utmost sorrow that I extend the condolences of all Canadians to the family and friends of Cpl. Brian Pinksen, a brave soldier who died due to injuries sustained in Afghanistan," the statement said. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time of loss. Cpl. Pinksen served Canada valiantly and deserves the gratitude and respect of his nation."

In total,152 Canadian soldiers and four civilianshave died as part ofCanada's missioninAfghanistan since it began in 2002.