Thousands mourn as Canadian soldier killed by gunman is laid to rest

The funeral of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, who was killed by a gunman in Ottawa, is taking place in his home town of Hamilton. The 24-year-old was shot in the back as he stood on guard at the war memorial in the Canadian capital on 22 October. The gunman, Michael Zehaf-Bibeau, went on to storm Canada’s parliament complex before he was fatally shot. Canada’s Prime Minister Stephen Harper gave a moving tribute to the fallen soldier at a service attended by relatives, dignitaries and fellow soldiers. Cpl Cirillo “joins the ranks of so many brave Canadians who have gone before him, having given all in the service of their country,” Mr Harper said.

Our hearts are broken for his loss, but our spirits are grateful for his memory. May his son, young Marcus Daniel Cirillo, someday find comfort in the fact that our entire country looks up to his Dad with pride, with gratitude, with deep abiding respect.

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper

Cpl Cirillo’s cousin, Jenny Holland, spoke on behalf of the family, sharing childhood memories of the soldier who she described as “Canada’s hero.” Earlier, members of Cpl Cirillo’s Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders regiment - dressed in ceremonial kilts, white boots and garters - escorted his coffin through the streets of Hamilton. The soldier’s five-year-old son Marcus followed the procession on foot, carrying a Canadian flag, along with Cpl Cirillo’s mother. After he was killed, Cpl Cirillo’s family thanked Canadians after thousands lined the 310-mile route between Ottawa and Hamilton to pay their respects.

We are not only mourning as a family but also a country, when we lost Nathan we all mourn as one. There are no words to express the sadness that has fallen upon us all. We take comfort knowing Nathan has done our country proud.

Cpl Crillo’s family statement

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