Canada is mourning after hearing that Missing Canadian Soldier Officer George Hohl, a member of the Canadian Armed Forces who had gone missing in the early part of this week in Latvia, was found dead on the tragic date of September 5, 2025. This finality on the four-day search and investigation gives occasion to think about his service, sacrifice, and the heartfelt loss suffered.
The Incident: From Missing to being Found
Warrant Officer George Hohl, a military vehicle technician with the 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, with nearly two decades of military experience, was deployed to Latvia within the ambit of Operation REASSURANCE, NATO’s Canadian initiative for the purpose of deterring regional threats
He had been reported missing on September 2, 2025, after having last been seen at Ādaži, near Riga.
The Latvian authorities, reinforced by Canadian Forces Military Police and NATO partners, conducted an intense search in the region.
In the end, the unfortunate death of Warrant Officer Hohl was discovered on September 5.’
Warrant Officer Hohl
Honoring His Service
Warrant Officer Hohl: A lifetime of love for service, intense dedication, and passion for Canada’s Defence effort. Chief of the Defence Staff, General Jennie Carignan, and Canadian Joint Operations Command commander Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin expressed deep condolences to his family and colleagues.
Lt-Gen Boivin:
“I am deeply saddened to learn of this outcome… My heartfelt condolences go out to Warrant Officer Hohl’s family… Warrant Officer Hohl’s two decades of service… are a testament to his dedication to Canada.”
Gen. Carignan further stated,
“The loss of Warrant Officer George Hohl has hit us all very hard… Warrant Officer Hohl will be remembered for his many years of dedicated service…”
Canadian Military Rights and NATO Presence
Operation REASSURANCE is the biggest overseas contingent undertaken by Canada on account of the geopolitical disturbances. The status consists of approximately 2,000 soldiers from the Canadian Armed Forces rotating through Latvia periodically to bolster the NATO presence and their commitments in Eastern Europe.
Vehicle tech of the Aviation Battalion, Warrant Officer Hohl’s role was vital in ensuring the smooth running of operations at the NATO Multinational Brigade at Ādaži, the key station for training and coordinating defense.
What Lies Ahead?
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding Warrant Officer Hohl’s demise is underway. Canadian Forces Military Police are working alongside the Latvian State Police on this matter. So far, all officials confirm there are no increased risks to other CAF personnel deployed there.
Time For A Nation-To-Reflect
This time of mourning within the Canadian military community is a powerful reminder: every mission, deployment, and strategy has a human story of courage, sacrifice, and duty behind it. Nearly 20 years’ worth of service, shortly punctuated by disaster relief operations and international deployments, perfectly shows Warrant Officer Hohl’s deep conviction.
For Canadians, especially military families, the loss hits home. It brings front and center the realities that stand in the face of our service members wherever they might be abroad, far and away-if, with a larger purpose, they serve.
The heartbreaking news of Warrant Officer George Hohl’s passing deeply saddens us all. We salute his service, honor his memory, and extend our warmest support to the family, friends, and fellow Canadians today.
As the developments on the investigation unfold, more updates will be dispensed from the herein with clarity and respect for privacy and process.
