October 24, 2014
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, the Minister of National Defence, issued the following statement:
“Last Wednesday, the nation watched in horror as passersby and medical professionals tried desperately, but ultimately unsuccessfully, to save the life of Corporal Nathan Cirillo after he was shot while standing sentry at the National War Memorial. This was an appalling event which affected us all, and we mourn with the families and friends of this fine Canadian.
“As we mourn this tragic loss, there will be an opportunity for Canadians to show their respect and support for the Fallen. This afternoon, Corporal Cirillo’s remains will be transported from Ottawa to his hometown of Hamilton, Ontario. The route on which his remains will travel incorporates the section of Highway 401 between Trenton and Toronto which came to be known as the ‘Highway of Heroes’ when fallen Canadian soldiers returned home after dying in service to Canada on overseas missions.
Canadians always showed heart-warming and humbling displays of visual support to fallen soldiers and their families whenever the motorcades travelled that route on their way to Toronto. I would encourage all Canadians who want to show their support to Corporal Cirillo and his family to gather at overpasses along the route this afternoon and offer a show of solidarity. It is my hope that the family of our Fallen may take some comfort in the fact that they do not mourn alone.”
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Johanna Quinney
Press Secretary to the Minister of National Defence
Office of the Minister of the Department of National Defence
(613) 996-3100
