The Hamilton Bulldogs have announced details for Military Appreciation Night in support of the Marcus Cirillo Trust on Friday, Dec. 5, versus the Toronto Marlies.
Prior to the game, the Bulldogs will honor the late Cpl. Nathan Cirillo and the service and sacrifice of all of those that serve in the Canadian Armed Forces.
The Bulldogs will wear a special commemorative jersey during the game. The jersey, designed in conjunction with representatives of the Cirillo family and SP Apparel, is a tribute to Cpl. Cirillo’s ceremonial attire with the cap and badge of his regiment on the shoulder and pant shell. The team will also wear black helmets donated by Reebok-CCM.
“We’re looking to bring together the Hamilton community to help raise money for Cpl. Cirillo’s son, Marcus,” said Hamilton Bulldogs president Stephen Ostaszewicz. “This falls in line with our annual Military Appreciation Night where we honor those that serve in the Canadian Armed Forces.”
A platoon of Cpl. Cirillo’s comrades from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada will be part of the pre-game ceremony that includes a ceremonial puck drop featuring his father Vic, son Marcus, and sister Natasha. The family will be welcomed to the ice by pipe and drums from Cpl. Cirillo’s regiment.
In addition, the Bulldogs will donate $2 to the Marcus Cirillo Trust from every individual and group ticket sold. The Bulldogs Foundation will run an auction of the specialty jerseys, helmets and pant shells, and an in-game mystery puck contest with proceeds donated to the Trust.
The Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs have agreed to move several tournament games from the Reebok Classic to FirstOntario Centre in support of the night. Cpl. Cirillo’s cousin, Ryan, plays for the Minor Bantam Jr. Bulldogs and his uncle, Stan, is the director of the tournament.
If any individuals or businesses are interested in donating tickets for members of the Canadian Armed Forces to attend the game, please contact Brittany Arner at brittany.arner@hamiltonbulldogs.com or 905-546-8182. The public can donate to the Trust directly by going to a TD Bank branch and asking to give money to the ‘Marcus Cirillo Trust.’
Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, a Hamilton native, was shot and fatally wounded Oct. 22 while standing honor guard at the National War Memorial in Ottawa.
