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Flag lowered in respect for murdered soldier

October 23, 2014   ·   0 Comments

Canadians across the country were rocked by the situation as it unfolded in Ottawa yesterday, and now wait with bated breath to find out what this will mean for our country, for our government and for our future.

Today, Canadians across the country mourn for our fallen – two soldiers, who in a span of 48 hours, were killed in a senseless act of violence. To show their respect, gratitude and mourning of Cpl. Nathan Frank Cirillo and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent (killed Monday in Montreal), the Town of Orangeville has lowered the flag outside of Town Hall, and in Dragonfly Park at the corner of Broadway and Highway 10.

“The flag has been lowered to half mast in respect of Cpl. Nathan Frank Cirillo and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent, who were killed this week in attacks that have affected so many of us,” wrote Mayor Rob Adams on Facebook this morning. “Let us send our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of both men, and our heartfelt gratitude to all of those serving and who have served to protect us.”

Councillor Jeremy Williams also took to Facebook this morning, expressing both his sorrow and his gratitude as well.

“To all those who stand on guard for Canada, protect our democracy, and protect our way of life each and every day, thank you,” wrote Councillor Williams. “Never forget the enormous cost paid for our freedom. Honour that sacrifice. I ask you to remember that when you vote this Monday.”

In a press conference yesterday evening, Prime Minister Stephen Harper offered words of condolences, strength and hope to Canadians, declaring that the ‘despicable attacks’ will not weaken the country’s resolve to take a stand against terrorism, both on Canadian and international soil.

“This week’s events are a grim reminder that Canada is not immune to the types of terrorist attacks we have seen elsewhere around the world,” said Prime Minister Harper. “But let there be no misunderstanding – we will not be intimidated. Canada will never be intimidated.”

He continued, adding that the attacks will strengthen their resolve and lead the government to “redouble our efforts and those of our national security agencies to take all necessary steps to identify and counter threats, and keep Canada safe here at home.”

The news broke around 9:52 a.m. yesterday morning, when reports of a shooting at the National War Memorial began to flood police through 911 calls. Shortly after gunning down Cpl. Cirillo, the gunman, later identified as 32 year old Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, entered Parliament’s Centre Block, where a gun-fight ensued. He was gunned down by the sergeant-at-arms for the House of Commons, Kevin Vickers.

Three other people were treated at the Ottawa Hospital after the shootings, but were discharged by Wednesday evening.

Earlier Wednesday, Ottawa police Const. Marc Soucy said officers believe there may be more than one assailant. This information has not yet been confirmed. Late Wednesday afternoon, a photograph from an ISIS twitter account surfaced, with officials claiming that the man in the photo had been identified as Zehaf-Bibeau. Whether or not the attack was mandated by ISIS or not has not been confirmed, as the investigation is ongoing.

Tomorrow (Friday), the message is being spread, asking Canadians to wear red to honour our fallen soldiers.

(With files from CTV news.)

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