Tuesday marks the five-year anniversary of the attack at the National War Memorial in Ottawa that claimed the life of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo.
The gunman, Michael Zehaf Bibeau, opened fire on Oct. 22, 2014, killing the 24-year-old ceremonial Honour Guard reservist and Hamilton-native.
Bibeau then stormed Parliament Hill’s Centre Block, injuring a guard and exchanging gunfire with security forces before being killed by Sergeant-at-arms Kevin Vickers.
Cirillo’s death was felt by people across the country and especially by those in his hometown of Hamilton. Thousands of onlookers filled the streets for a funeral procession in the days following his death.
The Armouries on James St. North became home to an incredible memorial with flowers, cards and notes lining the sidewalk.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement in honour of the courageous Canadian in whose life was lost. “Five years ago today, a senseless attack at the National War Memorial and Parliament Hill in Ottawa claimed the life of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, a sentry at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and injured several others. On this solemn anniversary, we remember Corporal Cirillo, along with Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent who was killed two days earlier in a separate attack in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. As we remember these two brave members of our Canadian Armed Forces, we also thank the bystanders who provided first aid, as well as the first responders and members of our Parliamentary family who put their safety at risk to protect us. Today, as we at home and around the world, we are reminded of the responsibility we all share to denounce hatred and promote inclusion in our communities.”
Tributes have been pouring in on Twitter from politicians and Canadians across the nation.
Today we remember Corporal Nathan Cirillo, who was killed 5 years ago today while serving as an honour guard at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. pic.twitter.com/5zhelmRp5i
— The Royal Canadian Legion (@RoyalCdnLegion) October 22, 2019
We will never forget Cpl Nathan Cirillo and WO Patrice Vincent, who were killed 5 years ago, targeted for serving our country in uniform. We are forever grateful to our brave men and women who sacrifice every day to protect our way of life. pic.twitter.com/pmDyjH7iMu
— Doug Ford (@fordnation) October 22, 2019
5 years ago today at approximately 9:50am #HamOnt Solider #NathanCirillo lost his life standing sentry in #Ottawa. Today please take a moment to remember Nathan & all #Canadian military members who have made the ultimate sacrifice defending this Nation & the freedoms we all enjoy pic.twitter.com/sDPTRSwQrK
— Hamilton Paramedics (@HPS_Paramedics) October 22, 2019
On October 22, 2014, an attack at the National War Memorial claimed the life of #HamOnt Solider, Corporal Nathan Cirillo. Today, on the 5th anniversary, we remember Corporal Cirillo & Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent, who was killed two days earlier in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.1/2 pic.twitter.com/Eya0CZHifE
— Fred Eisenberger (@HamiltonsMayor) October 22, 2019
Today we honour the service and sacrifice of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, who was killed on 22 October 2014 as he stood sentry at the sacred Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa. #CanadaRemembers pic.twitter.com/hwY7EdJLwt
— Veterans Affairs CA (@VeteransENG_CA) October 22, 2019
Today we pause and remember the service and sacrifice of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, killed 5 years ago while standing sentry at the National War Memorial, and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent, who was run down two days before the Parliament Hill shootings. We will remember them. pic.twitter.com/8gyxgmKtI3
— Wounded Warriors CAN (@WoundWarriorCA) October 22, 2019
Today we remember. Five years ago, Corporal Nathan Cirillo was killed. Let us not forget the sacrifices our men and women have made and continue to make to protect and serve our country and all Canadians. pic.twitter.com/kgvKj72N9Q
— Mike Kirkopoulos (@mikekirkopoulos) October 22, 2019
