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WELCOME TO THE 23RD MAY (VIGIL) AT THE RNMC WEBPAGE BROWSE AT YOUR PLEASURE. ENJOY
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An introduction to the year 2020 and information on the ceremony due to Covid-19
| This year, due to limited participation, we could not have a videographer and our usual Veterans photographers. All was done by our small group with their personal cameras and cell phones. The video was done with the cellphone of the Director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at Beechwood. When there is a will, there is a way!! Again this year, all employees of the RCMP were represented (regular members, civilian members and public service employees). This event started in 2018 to build momentum to 2023, the 150th anniversary of the RCMP. Due to current context, this year’s version was very much abbreviated. Normally the program is the following: This year, approximately 18 minutes, with our small group. This year, approximately 18 minutes, with our small group. Lowering of the flags, Raising of the flags – were the same this year The vigil is usually from 6:00 to 11:00; change sentinels every 30 minutes This year, only 30 minutes 6:00 to 6:30 Historical walking tour from 10:00 to 10:45. We identify 6 members in a section of the cemetery and their story is told by a veteran and personnel at Beechwood. A brochure is also is also produced. |
This year all is online
Ceremony from 11:00 until 11:45 (families, dignitaries, senior officials, international partners, veterans, serving members, etc. Historical recognition. Last year, we unveiled the plaques of 3 members who were Victoria Cross Recipients. This year we had to postpone the unveiling of a plaque to recognize the many RCMP members who volunteered for the No.1 Provost Company (RCMP) as part of the Canadian 1st Infantry Division. We were to particularly recognize the members who were killed while serving in the Provost Company during that war. Our plan is to do it next year as the Liberation of Holland should be done at a 75+1 commemoration. It has been a different experience but more than worthwhile than ever in these challenging and difficult times.
The following links provide background and historical information:
The following self explanatory script as presented by Suzanne Sarault
| Suzanne Sarault (As delivered – May 23, 2020 – 7:15) The 147th anniversary of the RCMP RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood May 23, 2020, the one hundred and forty-seventh (147th) anniversary of the RCMP 2020 is not being kind to the world nor to Canada So far, the year 2020 has brought suffering and pain The deadly tragedy in Nova Scotia where many lives were lost including our colleague Constable Heidi Stevenson, The Coronavirus disease Only a few are gathered here today in respect of the public health guidelines And we have an additional item to our kit to protect one another The deadly virus has taken the lives of so many including front-line workers. Some of our Veterans or their family members have become seriously ill or have lost their lives to the virus All are in our prayers today As we stand beside the National Military Cemetery of Canada Our hearts are heavy for our military colleagues, their families and all those affected by the recent tragic incidents The RCMP Veterans’ Association, Ottawa Division, commemorates the one hundred and forty-seventh anniversary of the RCMP. We remember all those who served in the RCMP We also think of those who serve in the RCMP today And we have special thoughts for all families of serving members and veterans. We stand here to honor their dedication, their courage And their service to our country. We particularly remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice since 1873 and whose names are engraved on this cenotaph Sadly, another name will soon join this list Among the 22 victims in Nova Scotia a few weeks ago our colleague, Constable Heidi Stevenson died in the line of duty protecting and ensuring the safety of Canadians. Cst. Stevenson held many different roles throughout her 23 years as an active member – most notably her time spent representing the RCMP across the continent as part of the Musical Ride. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Cst. Heidi Stevenson and with the families of all the victims. One life lost is one too many. The loss of life of a police officer is particularly shocking and distressing: That is why we will never forget That is why we will support one another That is why we will honor them forever We thank RCMP members, all police officers, and all employees for their service and their dedication. May you be guided by your beliefs of a better community for us all, that your families be honored for their support and that you maintain the strength, courage and perseverance to face the daily challenges. Our wishes are for healing, compassion, and peace We will now proceed with the laying of flowers and wreaths 1. Roy Berlinquette, the original chair of the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood, will lay a bouquet of tulips for the families. 2. Michel Pelletier, President of the RCMP Veterans’ Association, Ottawa Division and Kevin Mole, current chair of the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood will lay a wreath for the Ottawa Division. 3. With the RCMP marking the 100th anniversary of the Musical Ride establishing itself in Ottawa this year, Sergeant Major Martin Kohnen is with us today. He is the Riding Master of the Musical Ride and is representing the RCMP. The wreath will be layed by Veteran Christine Windover, one of the first two women who joined the Musical Ride. Christine trained a horse named Kito which happened to become Cst. Stevenson’s horse when she joined the Ride. 4. For the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation, Mr. James Patterson, Director of Family Services 5. The 2nd Vice-President of the RCMP Veterans’, Ottawa division, Louise Morel, will lay a rose on the stone engraved with the ‘’H’’ Division ensign in honour of Constable Stevenson As I conclude, my last words today are the motto of the Ottawa Division. ‘’Maintain the Legacy” Thank you for your participation this morning. Thank you for all watching from home this morning, We very much appreciate your support. Enjoy the rest of the day. |