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'Not only neighbours, but family': PM tells U.S. WebPosted Fri Sep 14 13:17:27 2001 OTTAWA - More than 100,000 people streamed on to Parliament Hill Friday for a special service to remember the victims of Tuesday's terrorist attacked in the U.S.
"We cannot stop the tears of grief. We cannot bring back lost wives and husbands, sons and daughters, American citizens, Canadian citizens, citizens from all over the world. We cannot restore futures that have been cut terribly short." During dark times like this, Canadians "feel not only like neighbours, but like family," the prime minister said. "By their outpouring of concern, sympathy and help, the feelings and actions of Canadians have been clear. "And, even as we grieve our own losses, the message they send to the American people is equally clear. Do not despair. You are not alone. We are with you. The whole world is with you." Just before the ceremony began at noon ET, Chrétien, Gov. Gen. Adrienne Clarkson and U.S. Ambassador Paul Celucci signed a book of condolence in the Hall of Honour. Some people in the quiet crowd outside clutched American flags, small and large, as the national anthems of both countries were played. A few wore T-shirts proclaiming their pride to be U.S. citizens. Hundreds of police officers and firefighters dressed in uniform stood at attention to honour the rescue workers killed trying to save people trapped in the World Trade Center before it collapsed Sept. 11. The service, part of a rare National Day of Mourning declared by the prime minister, was held at the same time a memorial ceremony took place at the National Cathedral in Washington. Memorial services were also held in several other countries, including Britain and France. It's the first time there has been an official National Day of Mourning in Canada since 1967, when governor general George Vanier died. 'You truly are our closest friend' Ambassador Celucci thanked all Canadians for their "overwhelming support and sympathy," from helping tens of thousands of passengers on diverted flights to leaving flowers and cards at U.S. consulates across the country. "You truly are our closest friend," Celucci said, and he welcomed Chrétien's pledge to help the United States and other "freedom-loving nations of this world …tien win this war against terrorism." After the speeches a solitary bagpiper played under the almost cloudless blue sky, and many people bowed their heads, some wiping away tears. The Governor General then asked Canadians across the country to observe three minutes of silence "as a gesture of friendship" to the United States. "May the spirit of peace, and the love of human beings for each other, be shown in our sympathy," she said. The Parliament Hill ceremony, which lasted just over half an hour, ended with the solemn tolling of the Peace Tower's main bell. Mourners then began queuing in long lines to sign books of condolence.
Written by CBC News Online staff |
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