Letters to the Editor

Tuesday 24 April 2012

RCMP recognizes police officers during ceremony today

In honour of their continued dedication to policing and many years of service, the New Brunswick RCMP recognized 34 employees and police officers during a ceremony in Fredericton today.

"There are countless examples of how the work that our employees do on a daily basis is making a difference in the communities we serve," said Assistant Commissioner Wayne Lang, Commanding Officer of the New Brunswick RCMP. "This is an opportunity for us to step aside from our regular duties to recognize and celebrate those who have gone above and beyond what is required of them in their respective jobs."

Lang helped Lt. Governor Graydon Nicholas hand out the awards during the ceremony today at the Centre communautaire Sainte- Anne. (Photo right).

Long Service Medals, which recognize employees with 20, 25, 30 and 35 years of service and good conduct with the RCMP, will be given to 24 employees. In addition, a total of six Commanding Officer Commendations will be awarded to individuals who have exhibited bravery and/or outstanding service.

Two of the commendations will be awarded to members of the Fredericton Police Force for their actions during the rescue of a woman whose vehicle left Route 105 in Maugerville in January of this year, and went into the frigid waters of the St. John River. 

 Cpl. Dwight Doyle, left, and Cst. Samantha McInnis of the Fredericton City Police exchanged a look after receiving bravery commendations from the RCMP today in Fredericton


Three members of the District 8 Acadian Peninsula RCMP will also receive commendations for their efforts in saving a man who tried to take his own life in May 2011.


 Cpl Stephane Blanchard, Cst Jean-Francois Comeau and Cst Raphael Mallet received commendations for bravery during an RCMP ceremony today in Fredericton


The RCMP Long Service Medal was created in the mid-1920's by Commissioner Starnes. Although the proposal received favorable consideration, Commissioner Starnes retired in 1931 without realizing his goal.


 Sergeant Gisele Babineau received her 25 year service medal from Lt. Governor Graydon Nicholas during an RCMP Long Service award ceremony today in Fredericton


On March 6, 1934, King George the 5th authorized the RCMP to grant a medal, known as the Long Service Award, to it's members for 20 years of service and good conduct. After 25 years of continued loyal service, a bronze clasp is added to the medal. After 30 years, a silver clasp; 35 years, a gold clasp; with three stars and finally after 40 years, a gold and silver clasp with four stars. 


 Cpl Maurice Richard, left, of Fredericton Ident received his Forensic Specialist Designation during the RCMP Long Service Award Ceremony today in Fredericton


An RCMP officer bends down to scoop up his daughter after she wandered onto the stage when he received his medal at the RCMP Long Service Award ceremony today in Fredericton