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Terminally ill retired firefighter given hero's salute (6 photos, video)

'This is overwhelming. The support from the community is just amazing,' says Grant McCullough's son-in-law following drive-by tribute

When Grant McCulloch was given just days to live, firefighters from around the province sprung into action to salute and say goodbye to the 44-year veteran of the service.

McCulloch watched from his hospital window at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) on Monday as more than 50 fire trucks and emergency services vehicles drove by to salute their emergency services brother.

“This is overwhelming. The support from the community is just amazing,” said MuCulloch's son-in-law, Greg Appleton. 

McCulloch served at Canadian Forces Base Borden for 44 years and retired in late 2020, but COVID-19 restrictions prevented his fellow firefighters from having a party for him.

This year, McCulloch developed heart issues and was admitted to RVH, where he has been receiving care.

It was determined that he needed bypass surgery, but when they attempted to intubate him, they were unable to do so. 

The doctors discovered that he has terminal Stage 4 cancer of the esophagus and gave the 66-year-old very little time to live.

Appleton said they are drawing their strength from McCulloch.

“We’re holding as strong as what Grant exemplifies. He has always been a person of strength and we’re following in his footsteps,” said Appleton.


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Shawn Gibson

About the Author: Shawn Gibson

Shawn Gibson is a staff writer based in Barrie
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