On Tuesday, Ottawa marked the 10th anniversary of the tragic terrorist attack on Parliament Hill, which claimed the life of 24-year-old reservist Cpl. Nathan Cirillo. For the Cirillo family, the memory of that day remains profoundly painful.
“I can’t believe it’s been 10 years. It felt like it was yesterday,” said Ephraim Cirillo, Nathan’s cousin, following a private family ceremony at the National War Memorial. It was at this very location that Cpl. Nathan Cirillo was fatally shot while standing guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on October 22, 2014. That day, the gunman also fired at Cpl. Branden Stevenson, who was on duty alongside Cirillo.
Reflecting on the tragedy, Ephraim Cirillo expressed the emotional weight of losing his cousin and the close bond he shared with Stevenson, who remains one of his best friends. “It was tough just knowing that my best friend was beside Nathan as well,” Ephraim shared. Despite the sorrow, he found solace in knowing that Nathan wasn’t alone during his final moments, saying, “It was nice to know that Nathan had Branden to comfort him in his final breaths.”
Political leaders issued statements on the solemn anniversary, with a moment of silence scheduled in the House of Commons to honor the fallen. In his remarks, Ephraim Cirillo emphasized Nathan’s courage and devotion to his loved ones, describing him as “brave, a leader, and an amazing human being.” He poignantly added, “I wish he could still be here today.”
For the Cirillo family, the National War Memorial has become a place of annual pilgrimage to remember Nathan and provide support to his mother. Ephraim recounted the closeness he shared with Nathan, noting that they were born just a year and a day apart and often celebrated their birthdays together.
The attack in 2014 continued after the gunman left the memorial, making his way to Parliament Hill, where he entered Centre Block and fired several shots before being neutralized. The assault occurred in the Hall of Honour, while MPs from the Conservative and NDP caucuses were gathered in nearby rooms for their regular meetings. The incident prompted a lengthy lockdown and highlighted security vulnerabilities around Parliament Hill.
The anniversary also commemorated another fallen soldier, Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent, who was killed in a separate terrorist attack just two days prior in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. In his statement, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau paid tribute to both Cirillo and Vincent, offering condolences to their families and friends still grappling with their loss.
“Today, our hearts are with their families and friends who still grieve the loss of their loved ones,” Trudeau said, reflecting on how Canadians came together in the face of tragedy. He praised the courage of those who protected others, adding, “Above all, we all remember the service and the sacrifice of those who stood guard, and those who rushed toward danger to save lives.”
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also acknowledged the bravery of those who came to Cirillo’s aid and the first responders who acted swiftly. “Conservatives will always fight for freedom over fear and light over darkness,” he declared. “May the memories of these two men rededicate us to this essential mission.”
This day of remembrance serves as a reminder of the resilience, sacrifice, and solidarity shown in the face of adversity, and it honors the lives of those who were lost while standing in defense of Canada.