Final Farewell In Hamilton For Slain Cdn. Soldier
Posted September 13, 2006 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
He was doing what he wanted most – giving back to his community and his country.
It was the final wish of Pte. Mark Graham, the 32nd soldier killed during Canada’s mission in Afghanistan. Graham became the victim of friendly fire last week, and on Wednesday, family, friends and colleagues all came together in Hamilton to say a final goodbye.
More than a thousand people turned out for the tear-filled funeral, a homecoming no one ever wanted – especially his 7-year-old daughter.
“The love that we saw in that room was just amazing,” marvels local MP Wayne Marston. “He had a full life. He was a credit to his country, certainly a credit to his community.”
The comrades he left behind vow his death won’t be in vain.
“He was just so happy, always a glint in his eye (and) very excited to be a member of the (Canadian Forces),” recalls Maj. Peter Scott, commanding officer of the 1RCR Petawawa. “With his death comes new resolve, new determination for all of his buddies to make sure they get the job done.”
“We recognize that this is a very important time for the Canadian Forces, and we’re certainly steeled by the confidence that the Canadian people and these soldiers’ families have in us,” assures General Guy Thibault.
Before Graham served his country, he was a promising young athlete, a track and field star who represented Canada in the Barcelona Olympics. In the church service, he was remembered for those years and referred to as a ‘famous man’.
If you weren’t able to attend the service but would like to pay your respects, click here to leave your message on a website set up for on-line tributes and condolences.
