The City of Pembroke is just one of many communities lowering their flags to mourn with military members, as they offer condolence to those who lost friends and family members on Oct. 18.
Pembroke is located right next to the Town of Petawawa – which houses CFB Petawawa – and he says the city and council extend their condolences to the family members and loved ones who lost their lives, and their thoughts go out to the injured and all those affected by the tragedy.
“We acknowledge and understand what is transpiring, and we want to express our sincerest condolences on the passing of the four individuals,” he says. “Our thoughts and prayers are also with the 39 that are injured.”
The federal government has stepped up to provide support to CFB Wainwright, and Gervais says if the city is called locally to help, they will answer the call.
“It sounds like it’s all hands-on deck in Alberta, so it remains to be seen whether any support is needed from our municipality, and we’d evaluate to see what we can do to help,” he says.
According to the Government of Canada, prime minister Mark Carney confirmed the fire began in the training area of CFB Wainwright and has started providing aid to help service members affected.
“Our immediate focus is on supporting those affected, assisting emergency responders, and ensuring the well-being of our members, families and the surrounding community,” Carney says.
The fire broke out at 4 p.m. local Alberta time.
(Justin Baumgardner)
