Canada in Afghanistan By Shivamk Sep 11, 2001 9/11 Suicide attacks by Al-Qaeda occur in the US Period: Sep 11, 2001 to Mar 1, 2014 Canada in Afghanistan Oct 7, 2001 Canada announces that they will join America with their Operation Enduring Freedom Oct 9, 2001 First Canadian ship; HMCS HALIFAX on its way to the arabian sea Nov 15, 2001 First Canadian forces members arrive in Afghanistan Jan 1, 2002 Canadian soldier's casket arrives home Aug 3, 2005 Canadian forces transition to Kandahar Jan 1, 2006 At peak : 3000 Canadian military personnel in Kandahar Nov 16, 2010 Canada's role in Afghanistan is now based on : Education/Health, security, regional diplomacy and humanitarian assistance. May 1, 2011 Operation ATTENTION begins Jul 1, 2011 Cease combat operations Mar 3, 2014 Canadian forces return home after mission ends