Veterans and first responders gathered Saturday, to finish the shift of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo.

At 9:52 a.m., the time Cirillo was shot, a moment of silence was held.

“It really really hit home,” said Bill Matthews, member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 234.

Matthews was a member of the Hamilton Argylls.

“I briefly met him a couple of years ago when I was at a function in Hamilton at the regiment. I just shook hands with him and said hello,” said Matthews.

“I understand he was a very well-liked solider,” he said.

Dozens stood at Guelph’s cenotaph to remember Cpl. Cirillo and warrant officer Patrice Vincent.

“I think it's been amazing to see the country coming together,” said Pam Mundy.

“It was important to come to this ceremony today because it's honoring the veterans and the people that have served our country,” 10-year-old Zack Farley.

“To just show that Canada will never be afraid, there will always be another man to step in and fill the line,” said Dan Duesling, a veteran.

“To this day... I'll never forget what happened to him,” said Matthews.