Mural honouring fallen soldiers arrives Sept. 30

A mural dedicated to the memory of Canadian soldiers who died in Afghanistan will make a one-day stop in Thunder Bay next week.

The mural, which is part of the Portraits of Honour national tour, features hand-painted portraits of the 157 Canadian soldiers, sailors and aircrew members who lost their lives while serving in Afghanistan.

The mural includes the portraits of the three fallen soldiers from Thunder Bay. Local soldiers include Pte. Josh Klukie, Cpl. Anthony Boneca and Pte. Robert Costall.

James Doerr, a spokesperson for Kin Canada, said the mural is meant to pay homage to those who gave their lives for their country.

“I’ve had the pleasure of being at many Portraits of Honour events and it is hard to describe,” Doerr said. “It is quite a somber day. A somber feeling when you are looking at these men and women who are on the portrait.

"These eyes they look at you look into your heart and it is a really tough thing to describe. I think it is really important for Thunder Bay to come out in force and pay tribute to these men and women because they have given the ultimate sacrifice.”

The mural will be on display at Waverly Park on Friday, Sept. 30 from noon until 6:30 p.m.