News release

Premier Reflects on Anniversary of Deaths of Soldiers

Premier's Office

Premier Stephen McNeil, who is also Minister responsible for Military Relations, today, Oct. 22, marked the one-year anniversary of the tragic deaths of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, who died while performing his duties as a sentry at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, and Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent, who was killed in a targeted hit-and-run attack two days earlier in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que.

"Cpl. Cirillo was attacked in an act of terrorism while standing guard at a symbol of the freedoms that Canadians hold so dearly. Warrant Officer Vincent's life also ended unexpectedly while serving his country," said Premier McNeil.

"We honour their sacrifices and our thoughts are with their loved ones today. As we approach Remembrance Day, these tragic deaths remind us of the men and women of the Canadian military who bravely protect Canadians, both at home and abroad and we offer them our heartfelt thanks and appreciation."

Events marking their deaths will take place today in Ottawa.