‘Hurting’: Vigil in Wainwright, Alta., for soldiers caught in deadly fire

Wainwright, Alta., held a vigil for the four soldiers who were killed in a grass fire during training on Saturday. The event, organized by local faith leaders, was the first opportunity for the public and those on the nearby military base to gather and mourn. The four individuals identified as Pte. Shaun Farrell, Pte. Aidan Goulding, Pte.

Hayden Lykkemark, and Sgt. Morgan Wong, each come from different parts of the province, including Prince Albert, North Vancouver, Langley, B.C., and Edmonton. Pastor Ryan Wood of the Church of the Nazarene emphasized that the soldiers are hurting and need support as they grieve. He stressed that it's okay not to be okay and that the community is available to help those wrestling with the tragedy.

Flags in Wainwright, across Canada, and at federal buildings were lowered to half-mast in honor of the fallen soldiers. A pile of flowers has also formed at the town's cenotaph. Mayor Bruce Pugh expressed relief that church leaders organized the vigil, stating it will contribute to healing and acknowledge the strength of the community.