OTTAWA — A sudden spasm of violence jolted the government center of Canada’s capital on Wednesday morning, as a gunman killed an honor guard soldier at a war memorial and then opened fire inside the nearby Parliament building, triggering a lockdown and hours of confusion in Ottawa.
The assault shocked a country that rarely experiences gun violence but has witnessed two attacks on members of its armed forces in recent days. Earlier this week, a soldier was killed in a hit-and-run that authorities have called an act of terrorism. In each case, the soldiers were targeted by individuals who had been barred from traveling abroad by Canadian authorities.
“We will not be intimidated. Canada will never be intimidated,” Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Wednesday night in an address to the nation.
The jihadists absolutely have declared war on western society. 2 Canadian soldiers have been targeted and killed. Probably more were intended. If Canada has been targeted then we can only assume that we are in their sights. Is our Congress next? How about state capitals? Are those more vulnerable than the U.S. Capitol?
Probably being an honor guard soldier at a war memorial is one of the safest military jobs a person can have, unless of course, there is a terrorist attack.
What can the United States do to prevent such an attack happening here on our home turf?
Meanwhile in memory of those Canadian soldiers who lost their life:
O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
The DOD has already announced that there will be extra security at our Tomb of the Unknowns.
Good. I hope the guards have live ammo also.
This is very, very scary!
The sergeant at arms got a standing ovation this morning. Not sure exactly what he did but he apparently saved the day. Good to see his valor recognized.
@Moon-howler
The Sergeant at Arms – a retired Mounty is the man who took down the gunman and prevented him from killing/wounding more people.
Thanks!He is a real hero. It was a very emotional scene this morning with the standing ovation. Then they sung O Canada.
@Moon-howler
I wonder if OUR Sergeant at Arms, in Congress, is armed.
I have no idea. Is he?
I’ve just read that some of the members of Parliament had snapped flagpoles and were stationing themselves near doors in ambush positions.
@Moon-howler
Apparently they can be. They are empowered law enforcement with quite a few enforcement and security duties.
Which is why I wanted the House Sergeant of Arms to arrest Holder when he was charged with contempt of Congress. They even have an actual jail cell for that.