Hamilton soldier who died in Latvia was 'immensely proud' to be part of Canadian military, says father
Posted on: Feb 02, 2026 01:41 IST | Posted by: Cbc
Sebastian Halmagean, 24, was living come out his puerility woolgather spell on his number one deployment in Latvia before he died, says his father.
"He cherished everyone involved in the CAF and all that came with the duties of a soldier."
Halmagean, originally from Hamilton, was a gunner based at the 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in Oromocto, N.B..
He died near the Latvian capital of Riga on Thursday, said the Department of National Defence (DND) in a media release. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation.
Canadian Armed Forces member dies in Latvia
Alin, who is the owner of mixed martial arts gym House of Champions in Stoney Creek, said he hopes Halmagean will inspire other Canadians to join the military — "to keep our country strong, and to fight for democracy and freedom around the world."
Halmagean was not only Alin's son, but also his best friend, who shared an interest in war history and combat, he said in a statement.
Halmagean helped extinguish fires in Newfoundland and Labrador last year and was proud to serve other Canadians in need, his father said.
Local MP Ned Kuruc said on Facebook that Halmagean's death was "devastating" to the Stoney Creek community. Kuruc knew Halmagean and his family personally.
"He loved nothing more than serving in the Canadian Armed Forces," Kuruc said. "Sebi you are a Canadian hero and will never be forgotten."
His death is under investigation by CAF police with support from Latvian State Police, said the DND, adding that no further information will be provided.
Halmagean was part of Operation Reassurance — CAF's largest overseas mission that includes 3,000 members, says its website.
It is contributing to NATO deterrence and defence measures in Central and East Europe.
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