The Fallen Canadian Soldier Project

THIS PROJECT BEGAN AS A TRIBUTE to Trooper Mark Wilson from London, Ontario, who died in action in Afghanistan on October 7, 2006. At the time, we had 40 casualties and with the permission of the Government of Canada, I set out to document the faces of each.

The portraits are 18″ x 24″, painted in oil on maple panel. They are hand lettered and intended as an obvious set. I thought perhaps they might be exhibited in the nation’s capital one day or possibly go to the War Museum. On Remembrance Day of 2008, however, I had the honour of meeting with the Wilson family and it became immediately clear where these portraits belong—with the families.

These portraits are given free of charge to the families of the fallen. I receive no government funding of any kind and refuse to take payment from these families who have already paid so dearly. Nor can I do this alone. Thank you to all who have become a part of this project by purchasing landscape prints. With your support, the portraits become a gift from the hearts of many.

This website was created as a way to document and to share something that has become bigger than myself, to thank those who have so kindly given encouragement and support along the way, and to extend to you an invitation to become a part and join in this journey.

Peace be with you,

Stephen C. Gaebel
London, Ontario

How you can be a part:

• Get involved. Please feel welcome to post comments and questions on this website and to become involved in this project.
• Subscribe. Stay updated on new postings, developments, and upcoming events.
• Share. Send an email, post a link on your facebook page, pass the word to family and friends.
• Show your support. Become a part in making this project possible by ordering a landscape print for your home or office or as a gift.