Warrant Officer George Hohl. Photo Courtesy of the Government of Canada
A Canadian soldier who went missing in Latvia earlier this week has been found dead. Warrant Officer George Hohl, a veteran with more than two decades of service, was discovered on Friday. He had been reported missing three days earlier. Authorities in Canada and Latvia have begun an investigation into his death.
Investigation Under Way
The Canadian Armed Forces confirmed the discovery in a statement Saturday night. They did not release details on the cause or circumstances of Hohl’s death. Officials said there is no sign of any broader threat to Canadian troops stationed in Latvia. Latvian authorities are supporting the investigation.
Currently, about 2,000 Canadian soldiers serve in Latvia under Operation REASSURANCE. This remains Canada’s largest overseas mission.
Military Leaders Express Grief
Lieutenant General Steve Boivin, Commander of Canadian Joint Operations Command, offered condolences. “It is with deep sadness that I learn this outcome following the research efforts in Latvia over the past few days. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the family, relatives and friends of Warrant Officer Hohl at this difficult time. The two decades of service to Warrant Officer Hohl in the Canadian Armed Forces demonstrate his dedication to Canada, both at home and abroad,” he said.
General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, also mourned the loss. “The loss of Adjutant George Hohl hit us all very hard. We are with all those who have known him during this period of great sadness,” she said.
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed sympathy to Hohl’s family and loved ones on social media.
Dedicated Service
Hohl served as a vehicle technician based in Edmonton, Alberta. He was deployed with the Aviation Battalion of the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia. Over his 20-year career, he served on several missions abroad, including Operations LENTUS and GLOBE. He also previously took part in Operation REASSURANCE.
The Canadian Armed Forces stated that Hohl was last seen in the Latvian town of Surai before his disappearance. They have not disclosed the location where his body was found.
Canada’s Role in Latvia
Canadian troops have maintained a presence in Latvia since 2014. Their mission is to strengthen NATO’s defence in the Baltic region and help deter Russian aggression. During his recent visit to Latvia, Prime Minister Carney confirmed that Canada will extend its military deployment until 2029.
