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Tributes pour in for Cpl. Nathan Cirillo on 5th anniversary of shooting

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Tuesday marks the five-year anniversary of the attack at the National War Memorial in Ottawa that claimed the life of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo.

The gunman, Michael Zehaf Bibeau, opened fire on Oct. 22, 2014, killing the 24-year-old ceremonial Honour Guard reservist and Hamilton-native.

Bibeau then stormed Parliament Hill’s Centre Block, injuring a guard and exchanging gunfire with security forces before being killed by Sergeant-at-arms Kevin Vickers.

Cirillo’s death was felt by people across the country and especially by those in his hometown of Hamilton. Thousands of onlookers filled the streets for a funeral procession in the days following his death.

The Armouries on James St. North became home to an incredible memorial with flowers, cards and notes lining the sidewalk.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued a statement in honour of the courageous Canadian in whose life was lost. “Five years ago today, a senseless attack at the National War Memorial and Parliament Hill in Ottawa claimed the life of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, a sentry at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and injured several others. On this solemn anniversary, we remember Corporal Cirillo, along with Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent who was killed two days earlier in a separate attack in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. As we remember these two brave members of our Canadian Armed Forces, we also thank the bystanders who provided first aid, as well as the first responders and members of our Parliamentary family who put their safety at risk to protect us. Today, as we at home and around the world, we are reminded of the responsibility we all share to denounce hatred and promote inclusion in our communities.”

Tributes have been pouring in on Twitter from politicians and Canadians across the nation.