I thought I would let the dust settle a little, because I think this topic is very sensitive. I also would never want to insult the family of any deceased officer.
My complaint, if you want to call it that, is not that Sgt. Ryan Russell was killed, but rather how his funeral became an event.
I just think it was over the top in terms of celebrity type status.
I just think it was over the top in terms of celebrity type status.
Sgt. Russell (God Bless him), was an active police officer who knew the dangers he faced each time he put on his uniform. He was killed. It was intentionally accidental. Was he saving some one? We know he left a wife and a family. It is a shame. But how many of our soldiers have done the same in Afghanistan? Agreed, we have the 'highway of heroes' and countless people come out to show support and mourn the death of many of those soldiers killed in action; but there is no big celebrity fan fare.
I believe that if the Police officers have their own rituals and wish to eulogise a fallen comrade in their own way, that is fine, but for the media to puff it up is not a sign of respect to him. I think it is a waste of a life.
As example, it was held at the Convention Centre, shouldn't that say something to begin with? Several dignitaries also paid tribute: Lt. Gov. David Onley, the former chief Julian Fantino (now a federal MP), not to mention the service also had music performed by Canadian singer John McDermott. Maybe it should have been held at the ACC?
The service itself, was broadcast on a big screen at Yonge-Dundas Square and outside the Air Canada Centre. Where is all this hype for our other heroes? I mentioned soldiers before, but truly, there are civilians who have heroically given their lives to help save others. I am not saying to give them this media fan-fare too, but for all us to stop and think that there are others who deserve our gratitude. And maybe for the media to stop overstating the obvious and focus on what is important during this time. Respect for his family. Thanks.