“Highway Of Heroes”

Not really HTA related but...

As many of you know, three Canadian soldiers were recently killed in the line of duty in Afghanistan. When a Canadian soldier dies overseas, the body is flown into CFB Trenton for a Repatriation Ceremony, then taken in a motorcade along the Highway of Heroes (401 between Trenton and Toronto) and down the DVP to the Ontario Coroner's Office.

That part of the 401 was renamed the Highway of Heroes in recognition of their sacrifice. Two days ago the procession had to make its journey. Military personnel, police, EMS, firefighters, Canadians all stood on the overpasses as it went by, remembering them. This is done every time a fallen soldier comes home. There were probably 100 people on the Lawrence Ave overpass on the DVP alone, myself included.

You don't have to support or agree with the war, but remember that they are the first ones to defend us all with their lives. If you can't be there while they go by on the 401, take a moment to remember them. They gave their lives for you.

Sadly I have been on more then one overpass!

This is really quite moving. How do you find out dates/times when the procession goes by?

To tell you the truth, TC, I don't know of any specific place that always gives the dates/times. There might be but I haven't found it.

CP24 and I think AM680 are fairly consistent with reporting on the "day of" that the procession is travelling, but they're not so good on the times. At least the last couple of times they haven't been. Other news media usually report that the fallen soldier has arrived at CFB Trenton. The procession should be the same day. Usually the procession reaches Scarborough by 4:00-4:45 PM and the Lawrence Ave and Wynford Drive overpasses on the DVP by 4:30-5:00 PM, depending on how its scheduled. I've seen some that go by somewhat earlier or later, but not by all that much. I live fairly close to the Lawrence Ave overpass on the DVP so if I see people starting to gather while I'm out driving, I head home, grab my flag and head for the bridge. Local news media sometimes says exactly when the procession will arrive, but it's very inconsistent.

Decent times are given here http://www.redfridays.ca/

You're right TC it's very moving, so many emotions run through you it's hard to tell what you're feeling when they pass under you!

I have lost one Cousin, 2 Great uncles in War and Peace Keeping!

The most famous Canadian Fighter Pilot is in my Family, I would more then likely be rich today if my Great Grandmother had not married My Great Grandfather.(a soldier, who was blinded by an explosion)

You're right TC it's very moving, so many emotions run through you it's hard to tell what you're feeling when they pass under you!

I agree completely.

The Armed Forces are the first ones to stand and defend us. The least we can do when they fall is stand for them.

Lest we forget