Canadian War Museum launches podcast on Afghanistan mission

The Canadian War Museum has launched ‘The Long War: Canada in Afghanistan,’ an eight-part podcast exploring the country’s 13-year military mission. Hosted by Anna Maria Tremonti and historian Andrew Burtch, the series provides a chronological account of Canada’s involvement, from the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and the U.S.-led invasion to combat operations, reconstruction efforts, and the eventual withdrawal of forces.

During the mission, more than 40,000 Canadians served. The conflict resulted in the deaths of 158 Canadian soldiers and one diplomat, with over 1,500 personnel wounded. The podcast utilizes historical recordings, oral history collections, and interviews with senior military leaders, diplomats, and veterans, including former Chief of the Defence Staff General Wayne Eyre and retired Major-General David Fraser.

This retrospective coincides with the 20th anniversary of Operation Medusa, a pivotal battle in Kandahar that reshaped Canada’s military perspective. Led by Brigadier-General David Fraser, the operation took place in the volatile Panjwayi district as NATO forces faced a regrouped Taliban insurgency. The battle highlighted the significant challenges faced by international forces in maintaining operational credibility amidst intense insurgent resistance.