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OTTAWA — The House of Commons is back in action, kicked off by an exhilarating show of support for the sergeant-at-arms of the House of Commons, who was among those who opened fire Wednesday on the gunman who stormed Parliament Hill.

Applause from all sides of the House rained down on Kevin Vickers as he carried the mace into the legislative chamber.

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Vickers was largely expressionless, save for an occasional nod of acknowledgement. At one point, he appeared close to tears during the ovation, which lasted several minutes.

He released a statement Thursday afternoon.

“I am very touched by the attention directed at me following yesterday’s events. However, I have the support of a remarkable security team that is committed to ensuring the safety of Members, employees and visitors to the Hill,” he said.

“On behalf of all members of the House of Commons Security Services team, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Cpl. Nathan Cirillo. Our prayers are with you. Our thoughts are also with Constable Samearn Son, who has been with the House of Commons Security Services for 10 years. Constable Son suffered a gun shot wound to the leg. He is in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery.”