Harper addresses Cirillo funeral service

Corporal Cirillo’s mother was escorted into the church by two Argylls. One was Brendan Stevenson — the other Argyll was standing on guard last week in Ottawa. Those who knew Cirillo in service — assisting the woman who watched Cirillo grow from a boy into a young man.

A moment of amazing strength and extreme sadness continued in the church — where Cirillo’s cousin and commanding officer spoke as well as the Prime Minister.

One of the most unforgettable moments today was seeing Cirillo’s family walking behind the procession — particularly his young son in the Argyll head dress.

Many people comparing that scene today with the one so many years ago — after John F. Kennedy was shot — during the former President’s funeral procession – and his son John Junior saluting.

And perhaps that comparison lends itself to just how much of a national impact the death of Corporal Cirillo has had here in Canada. And the enormous public support for his family.
People wanting to be there — for the young boy who lost his father while standing guard for our country.

And Prime Minister Harper talked about that service during his speech inside the church today — and at times he became very emotional.

It was Nathan Cirillo’s cousin that gave the country a better picture of Canada’s hero.

Jenny Holland: “Nathan may have looked like a big tough man but was such a kid at heart. It was beautiful to see the joy he had while playing with his son. Marcus adored him so much. Not only was Nathan his dad he was also his friend. Nathan had a genuine interest in military history and a love for the outdoors with his boundless energy it was no surprise he became a cadet.”

And gave us a glimpse at what he was like out of uniform.

Jenny Holland: “Nathan was a dishwasher pro. He would rearrange the entire dishwasher to perfectly place every dish to his standards but it’s no wonder he was like this as his mom was his original drill sergeant.”

His mother, Katherine, cried as Nathan was remembered for his contagious smile and his endless laughter.

Reverend: “Nathan your death is not in vain because of you this day this great country of Canada stands more unified and more determined than ever to be all that we are called to be a place of freedom, hope peace.”

Prime Minister Harper: “Our hearts are broken at his loss but our spirits are grateful for his memory. May time ease the searing pain of today and may his son someday find comfort in the fact that entire country looks up to his dad with pride with gratitude and with deep gratifying respect.”

The commanding officer of the Argylls, described Nathan’s strength and character saying he possessed all the qualities the army needs.

Lieutenant-Colonel Lawrence Hatfield: Loyal, tough, loving and true his family knew it, regiment knew it and now Canadians know it. Rest in Peace Cpl. Cirillo your Argyll family will not forget you.”

An official fund has been set up for Corporal Nathan Cirillo’s son Marcus.

It is with TD Bank. The transit number is 2221. The account number is 6391935. This is the only authorized trust fund.

And as we take a look at the procession leaving Christ’s Church Cathedral on James Street North — you can’t help but notice the Canadian like scene with the fall colours on the trees lining the street and the Canadian flag with the maple leaf draped over the casket.

When the procession left the church, it made its way south on James to York Boulevard and out to Woodland Cemetery. From that point it was a private service for Corporal Cirillo’s family.

The funeral service for Nathan Cirillo this afternoon was a chance for us to get to know more about who Nathan Cirillo was as a man — and a soldier. His cousin Jenny Holland painted a great picture in her eulogy.

Cirillo’s commanding officer shed more light on the kind of soldier Cirillo was. And it was clear Cirillo’s commitment and achievements meant he was held in the highest regard.

Lt.-Col. Lawrence Hatfield: “Good soldiering demands character. Had in magnificent abundance.”

As we stand among the memorial here outside the armoury — its clear how much support there is for the regiments that belong and train here. But the Argyll’s commanding officer let us all know today just how much the support from the community has meant to them in this incredibly difficult week.