Today our nation grieves with the Cirillo Family, the Princess Louise's Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada, the Canadian Armed Forces and the city of Hamilton.
As I write this I am watching the funeral procession to Christchurch Cathedral, watching as honours, normally bestowed to leaders of state and military are bestowed upon a young Corporal. A message of strength, unity, love and commitment being sent around the world.
The Cirillo family has allowed we Canadians to adopt him as our son. They have allowed us to grieve with them in a very overpowering way.
His funeral happened swiftly, only 6 days from giving his life for his country.
His family has allowed/welcomed so much sharing about Nathan on Facebook and in the media.
Patrice Vincent however, well, his family is grieving in a different way and has asked for privacy and so far, everyone has respected their wishes.
While I understand their very personal loss, I feel a tad cheated by their decision. I would like to feel that I knew Warrant Officer Vincent in the way I have come to know Nathan Cirillo, through his family, friends and colleagues, but sadly, I do not. No where can personal photos be found, very few stories about him shared and no Facebook page to share on.
Patrice Vincent died last Monday and will be buried on November 1st in Longueuil QC.
I can only imagine the pain of these two families.
Though they both grieve deeply, they do so in a different way, a way that must be respected.
I just hope, that when they are ready, the family of Patrice Vincent will allow us to show them how deeply we feel their loss and how appreciative of his service and sacrifice we truly are.
Though they both grieve deeply, they do so in a different way, a way that must be respected.
I just hope, that when they are ready, the family of Patrice Vincent will allow us to show them how deeply we feel their loss and how appreciative of his service and sacrifice we truly are.
There is not much else we can offer them and I hope they know we offer it, but we respect their wishes.
I also want to take a moment to remember the service of the unnamed soldier who was injured in the same attack as Patrice Vincent lost his life. I hope that he too, will one day, allow we Canadians to embrace him, and let him know how thankful we are for all of the blessings we have as Canadians because of the service of the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces.
In about 25 minutes a funeral for a young man takes place, I hope you take 1 minute to pay him and all of our fallen a word of thanks and respect.
Belt Drive Betty
Editor & Rider
