In the midst of a severe winter storm 27 years ago, Toronto Mayor Mel Lastman made a bold move by enlisting the help of the Canadian soldiers to assist in digging out the city. The storm hit on January 12, 1999, leaving Toronto paralyzed under massive snowfall. Lastman’s decision to call in military support led to 438 soldiers arriving from CFB Petawawa in 128 military vehicles, with an additional 110 reservists on standby.
This iconic moment saw Lastman riding triumphantly in a military tank through the snow-covered streets of Toronto, a sight that captured global attention and sparked both admiration and ridicule. Despite facing criticism for what some labeled as an extreme measure, Lastman defended his action, emphasizing the priority of ensuring the safety of Toronto residents.
The soldiers quickly adapted to their new responsibilities, aiding stranded individuals, facilitating medical transportation, and proactively preventing potential flooding by clearing catch basins. Brigadier General Walter Holmes highlighted the military’s readiness and versatility in responding to such emergencies, drawing on past experiences like the 1998 Quebec ice storm.
The city ultimately endured a staggering 118 centimeters of snow during that challenging January. While the decision to involve the army in the cleanup efforts sparked debate then and continues to do so, the impact of the storm and the subsequent assistance provided by the soldiers left a lasting impression on Toronto’s history.