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Humboldt first responders help kick off Stampede parade

Jul 6, 2018 | 5:34 PM

The Calgary Stampede kicked off under a blazing blue sky Friday with a parade through downtown Calgary, which set aside a special place of honour for emergency workers who responded to the Humboldt Broncos bus crash.

Paramedics, police and firefighters from near where the junior hockey team’s bus and a semi-truck collided in April were invited to march. Sixteen people died and 13 were injured.

Nipawin RCMP Staff Sgt. Darren Wouters said the president of the Stampede reached out with the invitation.

“All we had to do was get on the plane and they’ve really taken care of us,” said Wouters, wearing a #HumboldtStrong T-shirt, as floats and horses got in position to march.

“We certainly appreciate the opportunity to be here today and represent the families and the Humboldt Broncos, as well as all of the protective services workers in Saskatchewan.”

Nipawin fire Chief Brian Starkell said he’s been treated like royalty.

“It’s just been excellent,” he said. “It’s just been tremendous so far and just a huge thank you to everybody.”

The crash happened at a rural intersection as the Broncos were heading to Nipawin for a playoff game. Saskatchewan RCMP were to announce charges later Friday.