Recognizing the Courage of Civilians Who Aided Nathan Cirillo
A decade ago, on October 22, 2014, a tragedy unfolded at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, marking a somber chapter in Canadian history. This day not only took the life of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, a reservist on duty, but also showcased the extraordinary bravery of civilians who rushed to his aid during the chaotic moments of the attack. Recent discussions among Members of Parliament highlight the need to formally recognize these individuals for their selfless actions, a call that underscores the importance of acknowledging courage in all its forms.
One such hero, Martin Magnan, was nearby when he heard the gunshots that shattered the tranquility of downtown Ottawa. Instead of fleeing to safety like many others, Magnan felt a compelling urge to run toward the sound of danger. “I started running, towards the gunfire, towards the scene,” he recalled. This instinctive act placed him at the forefront of a group of six brave souls, including fellow civilian volunteers and military personnel, who worked desperately to assist Corporal Cirillo as he lay gravely wounded. Magnan described how he held Cirillo’s hand in those final moments, a gesture that emphasized the humanity in the face of tragedy.
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The chaos did not end there. The assailant, after shooting Cirillo, fled to the Parliament Hill's Centre Block, leading to further violence. The security response was swift, with the shooter being neutralized shortly thereafter. Yet, the focus remained on the fallen soldier, who was only 24 years old and left behind a young son, Marcus. As the nation mourned, the actions of the civilians present that day went largely unrecognized.
While security personnel who acted during the attack were honored with various accolades, including the Star of Courage and the Medal of Bravery, the same recognition has not been extended to the civilians who displayed extraordinary bravery. Former MP Erin O’Toole, who witnessed the events unfold, emphasized that there should be no distinction between those in uniform and those who stepped forward out of instinctive courage. “There should be no difference between anyone who ran towards danger that day,” he stated, expressing a determination to advocate for acknowledgment of these civilians’ bravery.
Veteran MP Charlie Angus echoed these sentiments, labeling the actions of those who aided Cirillo as nothing short of heroism. He plans to raise this issue in Parliament, aiming to ensure that the civilians involved are celebrated appropriately. In response to inquiries, Rideau Hall acknowledged the bravery exhibited by individuals on that fateful day, but there remains a lingering question: why haven’t these civilians received the recognition they rightfully deserve?
Martin Magnan’s reflections on the aftermath of that day are poignant. Despite receiving a gold lifesaving medal and a pin recognizing his efforts, he feels that a formal acknowledgment at a prestigious venue like Rideau Hall would be a fitting tribute. The psychological toll of that day has haunted him; he describes struggling with feelings of isolation and confusion, illustrating how trauma can ripple through one’s life. “When we move on, something goes away – but it’s here now,” he shared, indicating the lasting impact of that tragic day on his psyche.
As we remember Corporal Nathan Cirillo and the events that transpired on that day, it becomes crucial to recognize the courage of the civilians who came to his aid. Their willingness to confront danger reflects the best of humanity and deserves to be honored alongside the valor of those in uniform. It is a call to action for all of us to acknowledge and celebrate the unsung heroes among us, ensuring their contributions are not forgotten.
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