Public reacts to Cirillo funeral

James Street North was packed with onlookers and service personnel in a remarkable show of support that brought out the very best in so many.

Members of the public were moved to tears today as the casket of Cpl. Cirillo made its way under that huge Canadian flag, past the monument to his memory at the armouries, and here to where we all said goodbye. And in speaking with the crowd here today, many see this as a defining moment for the country.

On a day when the nation is grieving, those who knew Corporal Cirillo remind us how personal this loss has been.

Britney Winter: “Just heartbreak, heartbroken. I’m gonna miss him so much.”

Joanne Costelli, relative: “Very emotional, very sad, and it should have never happened.”

Alicia Floresco: “I’m at a loss of words right now. Just overwhelming. At the same time just so many emotions running through.”

It’s already being called a day for the history books — with red and white lining the streets, service men and women marching by the thousands, and political leaders of all stripes coming together.

Helen Tanguay: “It makes me proud to be a Canadian.”James Street North was packed with onlookers and service personnel in a remarkable show of support that brought out the very best in so many.

The show of support reflects not only solidarity, but also how Cirillo’s life touched so many.

Andrew Gardiner was trained by Cirillo: “He was one of the best soldiers I’ve ever seen. He did his job, and served his country well.”

And after the service many of our leaders reflected on what the day means for Canada.

Justin Trudeau: “We remember what Corporal Cirillo was standing on guard for, and we protect those values and those principals.”

David Sweet, Conservative MP, ADFW: “All of us are proud to be Canadians. After this incident, and at the same time, how deeply sorrowful Canadians are for the family of Corporal Cirillo.”

Ontario NDP Leader Andrew Horwath: “I think this has changed the way we are as Canadians, in a positive way though. In a way where we’ve all come together and have taken pause to recognize who we are as a nation and as a people and I’m very proud to be a Hamiltonian and I’m proud to be from a province like Ontario, and a country like Canada.”

Horwath said that things have changed in Hamilton forever. Remembrance Day will never be the same as residents in Hamilton will never forget this day.