REGINA, September 8, 2013 – Today, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police held its National Memorial Service at the RCMP Academy, “Depot” Division. In keeping with a tradition that began in the mid-1930s – when RCMP members gathered in Depot’s Sleigh Square to honour their fallen comrades – today’s ceremony honoured members, special constables and auxiliary constables who lost their lives in the line of duty.
This year, one name was inscribed on the Cenotaph, the Honour Roll and the Memorial Wall Plaques, bringing the total number of fallen members to 231 since the creation of the North-West Mounted Police in 1873:
Constable Adrian Johann Oliver
Honour Roll # 231
Regimental number 57673
Served June 1, 2009–November 13, 2012
Constable Oliver died as a result of a police vehicle collision while conducting patrols for a suspected stolen vehicle in the area of Surrey, B.C. Constable Oliver was honoured by a number of serving members of the RCMP, including his father, Joe, his brother, Benjamin, his partner, Shelagh, and RCMP Commissioner Bob Paulson.
“Adrian and the 230 other fallen men and women we honour today chose to serve their fellow citizens, protect the community and uphold the peace, law and order that we so value,” said Commissioner Paulson. “Their service has strengthened us all.”
The Memorial Service – an annual event held the second Sunday of September – was attended by family and friends of the fallen member. They were joined by veterans, cadets and members from across the country. The “Depot” Division Cadet Band and the RCMP Regina and “K” Division Pipes and Drums Bands were also on hand to pay tribute to the fallen members.
According to “Depot” Division’s commanding officer, Chief Superintendent Louise Lafrance, “The Memorial weekend is one of the most important events of the year at Depot. In September each year, we have the privilege of coming together to march on parade and pay respect to our fallen officers and to the families they left behind. This event allows us to reflect on the significance of the sacrifice these officers have made. Adrian Oliver and all others before him will never be forgotten."
Commissioner Paulson also took the opportunity of RCMP National Memorial weekend to announce a new remembrance initiative called the Silent Partner Program. Cadets entering Depot will receive a card including personal data and career highlights of a fallen member. The cadets will carry the card with them throughout training and may be asked to share details of their silent partner during inspections. After graduating, new Mounties will be able to hold onto their card.
For more information about the RCMP National Memorial Service, please visit: http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/depot/visitors-visiteurs/memorial-service-commemoratif-eng.htm
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For further information, contact:
David Calam
RCMP “Depot” Division, Communication Services
David.Calam@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Tel: 306-780-3166
