Wednesday, May 16, 2012

In Memory of O. 233, Inspector William John Dempster


In Memory of O. 233, Inspector William John Dempster

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Inspector W. J. Dempster led a varied career between 'K' Division and 'M' Division in the north. 

He is best remembered for his actions as a Corporal in 1911 as a participant in the search for the 'Lost Patrol'. 

After the RNWMP patrol was reported overdue, Corporal Dempster was detailed along with Reg.#4937, Cst. Jerry Fyfe and a former member, Reg.#4889, ex-Cst. Frederick Turner to make a search from Dawson to Fort McPherson, Yukon. 

The search party found the frozen bodies of Reg.#4582, Cst. George F. Kinney (Honour Roll # 36) and Reg.#4346, Cst. Richard O. Taylor (Honour Roll # 37) on the Peel River about 35 miles from Fort McPherson. 

The following day they found the bodies of O.156, Insp. Francis J. Fitzgerald (Honour Roll # 35) and Spl/Cst. (ex- Reg.#2127) Samuel Carter (Honour Roll # 34) about 25 miles from Fort McPherson.

The Dempster Highway, Yukon carries his name.

Inspector Dempster died in 1964 at the age of 87 years. He is buried in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Burnaby, BC

++++'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,
Reg.#23685

I am deeply appreciated to Vet Jack White, deceased, for now having access to his valuable historical notes.

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BuffaloJoe
Reg.#23685