TORONTO -- Sapper Matthieu Allard and Cpl. Christian Bobbitt proved a painful reminder that freedom isn't free as their remains were returned from Afghanistan yesterday.

The two combat engineers were killed on Saturday in a roadside bomb attack west of Kandahar.

Allard and Bobbitt, who served with the Royal 22nd Regiment based in Valcartier, Que., had dismounted from their vehicle to secure the area after an initial blast near the town of Senjaray, when they were killed by a second explosion.

Even though it poured rain as their bodies were brought from CFB Trenton to the coroner's building in Toronto, people gathered on overpasses along the Highway of Heroes to pay their respects as the caravan passed.

"It is very important to recognize the sacrifice of these soldiers," Lt.-Gov David Onley said yesterday at the coroner's building, where hundreds gathered, including police, firefighters, soldiers and the public.

'STAND BY THEM'

"We are here to honour them and the families and let them know that thousands stand by them."

It's our patriotic duty to be here, Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair said.

"We, the police and the emergency services, are here because we respect these fallen soldiers. It is important for the families to know Canadians support their sacrifice and it is important for them to see that in this final step of repatriation," Blair said.

Keven Ellis, of the military support group North Wall Riders, said Canadian men and women at war won't be forgotten.

"They are protecting our freedoms and rights. Even if you don't support the war, you have to respect and support our troops," Ellis said.

"These soldiers give up their families, loved ones and lives for us."

Donna Gray, with the Baron Byng Beaches Legion, says the troops overseas need to be recognized for their work.

"Both my grandfathers went to war and they would want to see support here for these soldiers. That is why I'm here," she said.

KEVIN.CONNOR@SUNMEDIA.CA