In Memory of Reg.#0.29, NWMP Inspector F. J. Dickens

PAX



'Friends Not Forgotten'

One name in the North West Mounted Police literature which is mentioned most often is Inspector F. J. 'Frank' Dickens. Without question, part of his reputation arose because he was a son of the English novelist Charles Dickens -- in discreet circles, it is said that Frank Dickens likely received his commission in the NWMP because of family connections. 

Even today, controversary swirls around Inspector Dickens. One the one hand, he was reputed to be an excellent horseman having learned his saddle skills some years earlier with the Bengal Mounted Police. He was truly an 'outdoors' person since he had turned down previous offers in journalism. On the other hand, Dickens reputation was also one less flattering. It is said that that he was frequently overcome by the evil spirits which flow out of the bottle. The ills of every man can be magnified under different lite thus from that perspective, Dickens was not unlike many others who have served in policing. 

After a twelve year career in the NWMP, Dickens stuck hard times. At one point, he was invited to Moline, Illinois to give a speech about his famous father. However, prior to his speech, he died of a heart attack. He was buried in Moline.

The RCMP erected an official N.W.M.P tombstone over Inspector Dickens grave on September 24th. 2002.

'Maintaain Our Memories'

J J. Healy

In Memory of Reg.#58586, Constable C. A. Robinson

PAX

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Constable Chelsey Alice Robinson was born in Picture Butte, Alberta, CA in April 1985. She joined the Force in 2009.

Cst. Robinson graduated from the RCMP Academy and was posted to 'K' Division (Alberta). Whilst on patrol and on the lookout for an impaired driver, Cst. Robinson was killed on June 21, 2010 near Stoney Plain, Alberta when her cruiser was struck by a truck as she crossed the highway.

Cst. Robinson is buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Lethbridge, AB

Appreciation: to Mr. Reg. Keatley, Friend of the Force, Calgary, AB for the photo

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy

Reg.#23685

In Memory of RCMP/GRC Friends - Lives Lost in Haiti

PAX

In memory of

Chief Superintendent Doug Coates

and

Sergeant Mark Gallagher

RCMP/GRC

'Friends Not Forgotten'

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy
Reg.#23685

A Visit to Reg.#22316, John MacDonald. Ottawa, ON

Look who's gettin' around town

Reg.#22316, John MacDonald

Not so long ago, I was invited to tag along to visit an ole' friend, retired Reg.#22316, John MacDonald who is presently living in a Long Term Care Home in Orleans, Ontario due to his restricted ability to walk.

 

John is very fortunate because he has a couple of close troopmates living in the Ottawa area; Reg.#22329, Herman Beaulac and Reg.#22322, Ernie Welter.

 

Every few weeks or so, Beaulac and Welter slip around the 'Home' and take John captive -- out for lunch and a refreshment or two.  John has the youthful nursing staff in stitches especially by the graceful way that he teases them ... he ties to convince them that he's single and in need of a date on Friday night's.

One can easily tell that John is admired and loved by the nurses -- although they make him do his share of 'pushing and pulling' so that his strength remains at a reasonable level.

 

Lunch in downtown Orleans was absolutely delightful and memorable. Helping John into the restaurant and moving him into place for lunch was no trouble as new restruarants have adapted to the wheelchair. The food was equally delicious and John was hungry.

 

John has not lost one ounce of his humour. He made sure that he capatilized on the conversation especially about his days during training at 'N' Division in '62 as well as his stints in FSS, first, at the Canadian Police College where he and I first met during the mid 1970's. Later, John also worked in FSS at 'HQ'.

 

After returning to the Home, I had the ocassion to play a few standards on the old grand 88's for John. You can tell how he loves music. For a moment, I thought he would dance! Later, I learned that John is an accomplished harmonica (harp) player so the next time that we're together we'll play a romantice set on our harps for John's nurses!

 

Oh, it's great to be Irish or French or Scottish or English or German and Canadian too!

 

Photos by Reg.#23685, Healy, J. J.

Suspects: on the left, Herman Beaulac, center John MacDonald and right Ernie Welter.

 

Maintain Our Memories'

In Memory of Sgt. J. C. Coughlin - Royal Tour 1939

Sgt. J. C. Coughlin - Royal Tour 1939

Revived and Living (in our memories)

Deceased RCMP Sgt. J. C. 'Jimmy' Coughlin deserves to be called a legend in life. 

Sgt. Coughlin first came to my mind in mid 1964 at 'Depot'. I was one of a half dozen recruits chosen by Riding Instructor Cpl. Dee Jessiman to dig a grave in the 'Depot' Cemetery. At the time of the dig, we didn't know the intended grave's occupant.

As it turned out, the deceased was more famous than any of us realized. I now know that he was Reg. # 12511, Sgt. James Campbell Coughlin. Jack White of the Kamloops Vets reports the following:

'Coughlin Bay’, Regina, Saskatchewan is named after Reg.#12511, RCMP Sergeant James Campbell Coughlin. Jimmy was a man of many talents. He was the Canadian Welter Weight Boxing Champion of 1934 and he put these talents to good use in his many years as Boxing Instructor at ‘Depot’. Probably for his physical abilities, he was chosen as one of the 4 personal Orderlies (bodyguards) to King George VI and Queen Elizabeth on their 1939 Royal Tour of Canada.

Sgt. Coughlin was also a artisan. He designed the wrought iron gates, which welcomed all to ‘Depot’ for many years, at both the north and south entrances to the training facility. He also collaborated in the design of the Steeple on the Force Chapel at ‘Depot’ and, in 1962, painted a mural which adorns the Sergeants Mess at ‘Depot’.

Recently, I was very pleased to receive a letter from Historian Vet Don Klancher of 'E' Div. about Sgt. Coughlin. In addition to providing more information on the roles of the two different RCMP groups who travelled with the Royal couple, he also sent this photograph which was taken from a post card.

Don Klancher explained there were four members who were body guards (Orderlies) who accompanined the Royal couple. They were: Reg. #10433 Sgt. H.W.H. Williams, Reg.#12054 Cst. J.A.L.S. Langlois, Reg.#12511 Cst. J.C. Coughlin and Reg.#12766 Cst. R. Portelance. These four members can be seen in the photograph above.

Don said there was a second group of RCMP which also travelled with the Royal couple but in a separate pilot train-car. The distinction between the two groups of RCMP escorts is explained in Without Fear, Favour or Affection written by then Assistant Commissioner V.A.M. Kemp. A/Comm'r Kemp wrote: '[the first group to which Sgt. Coughlin belonged was] '... a hand-picked detachment [who] travelled at all times on the Royal train, while another [the second] group travelled on the pilot train. The police party, consisting of sixteen NCO's, constables and myself, occupied a full car on the pilot train...'p.191.

The 1939 Royal Tour was most unique to the RCMP because it the first major, cross Canada, planned undertaking of this sort for a month long VIP visit by the Royal Family. The entre tour went smoothly. At the conclusion of the Royal visit, King George VI praised the work and dedication of the RCMP Escort Team. The King said to A/Comm'r Kemp: 'I can't recall a single incident which could, by the remotest stretch of imagination, be termed difficult or embarassing.' p.191

The gracious remarks of King George were a wonderful credit to the RCMP, to Assistant Commissioner Kemp and all the Officer's, NCO's and constables which comprised the Royal Escort.

Cst. J. C. Coughlin later Sergeant Coughlin must have been proud when he heard the compliments paid to the RCMP Royal Escort. I, too, am proud to have shared a wee bit of history with Sgt. Coughlin. I would  liked to have met him and to jaw about his experiences on the Royal Visit.

I didn't expect to be selected to dig Sgt. Coughlin's grave in 'Depot' in 1964. But,  today I can thank Cpl. Jessiman for choosing me.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy
Reg.#23685

Credits: Thanks to 'E' Div. Vet. Don Klancher for the story line and the photograph of the Royal couple and the RCMP Escort Team.

Kemp, Vernon A.M. Without Fear, Favour or Affection. 1958. Longman, Green and Company. Toronto.

Say...have you seen the new 'Depot' Drill Hall?

In Memory of Reg.#12375, Cst. Hugh Joseph Ferguson

Cst. Hugh Joseph Ferguson joined the Force in 1934 but apparently the experience was not to his liking. He took discharge March 16, 1935. While he was at 'Depot' in 1934, he took particular note of a freshly constructed building -- today we call it the 'new' Drill Hall.

Vet. Cyril Camerson of Nova Scotia tells this yarn about Cst. Ferguson. Cyril says: 'Joe, I knew Hughie Ferguson very well. A very fine man. In fact, when I was heading off to 'Depot' Hughie said that the RCMP was building the 'new' Drill Hall while he was in training. When I arrived at 'Depot', sure enough I noted the corner stone was dated 1934'.

Cst. Ferguson died on October 21, 2009. He is buried in Dearborn, Michigan, USA. Hughie looks a fine gentleman indeed.  We let a good one get away.

'Maintain Our Memories'

Source: Thanks to Vet Cyril Cameron for the yarn and our thanks to Supt. Brian Brennan for the snaps.

J. J. Healy

Reg.#23685

In Memory of NWMP Reg. #2266, Cst. E. B. Jewell

Cst. Earnest Benjamin 'Shorty' Jewell joined the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) on March 5, 1889. He was posted to 'F' Div. (Saskatchewan) and 'K' Division (Alberta).

After serving about 6 years in the Force, Cst. Jewell left in 1895. He died in Fort Smith, NWT in 1942 and he is buried in a small cemetery in Fitzgerald, AB.

In recent days, this message was received from Mr. Trevor Whitehouse. He said: 'In 1991, I was in the Coast Guard and happened to be working in the Slave River area near our sub-base at Fort Fitzgerald.  I came upon the cemetery and took this picture of this RCMP gravesite primarily because the surname was the same as a colleague of mine.  I note your database doesn't have the photo.  Since Fitzgerald, AB is well off the beaten path, I thought you might want it.'



I am very, very appreciative to Mr. Trevor Whitehouse for sending in this photo of Cst. Jewell's grave. It has now been added into the graves database photo collection.

Thank you.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. (Joe) Healy

Reg.#23685

Reg.#12402, S/S/M J.R. 'Ray' McFarland

In the Dock: Causing a fuss over a Birthday

Reg.#12402, S/S/M J.R. 'Ray' McFarland.

Reg.#12402, Vet S/S/M J.R. 'Ray' McFarland (R'td) of Ottawa was recently charged by the Ottawa Division Vets for celebrating a big birthday milestone.

In his message of congratulations to Ray, Ottawa Vet President Al Rivard said: 'Dear Ray; We all wish you a Happy Birthday.

We happen to have learned that you are 97 years young. Congratulations. I've also been told that you have been a member of the RCMP Veterans' Association for 48 years. This alone is a truly remarkable feat.

Ray, I speak on behalf of the Ottawa Division when I say that we are proud to have you within our ranks and we wish you all the best on this very special day. Your Happy Birthday. We'll let you off with a warning this time but you must promise to continue celebrating birthdays.' Best Wishes.

Al Rivard
President, Ottawa Vets

PS: Raymond James McFarland was born in Saint John, NB on December 14, 1913. He joined the Force on June 20, 1934. Ray was posted to 'A', 'G', 'HQ', 'A' and 'HQ' Divisions. Ray McFarland retired in June, 1961 at the rank of Staff Sergeant Major.

In this photo, Reg#12402, seasoned Vet Ray McFarland  is shown with a Vet pup Reg. #23685, J. J. Healy.

Answer: Vets McFarland and Healy were born in New Brunswick.
Question: What's the secret to the pair of smiles?

by, J. J. Healy

'Maintain Our Memories'

Alert: To All Police Chaplains - Hand cuff your bird.

The following got me thinking about Chaplains. Chaplains, Latin and birds.

I recently accepted an invitation for brunch with some other vets. At the commencement of the meal, one vet told his story about a local padre. The vet said that he and his wife attended a church service on Christmas Eve. At the conclusion of the service, the padre wished the congregation Best Wishes for Christmas, then he added: 'I hope the person who took my turkey will return it before tomorrow.'

The story-telling vet said that the padre apparently put his Christmas turkey in the fridge in the basement of the church on Christmas Eve afternoon. He was about to take a nap. According to the padre's clock, it was also turkey thaw-time.

About the time of the 7 PM service, the padre went to check for his bird. It was missing! No farewell message! There is was, gone! Flew the coop as it were! Left the building! Likely stolen!

It's no joke, sadly said the vet. The padre had no bird! I thought: 'If the padre is minus a bird, what could I add?' Perhaps nothing.

So, I tried to console my friend. I told him that as a youth I had once owned some turkeys. In fact, by age seven, I had attended several turkey autopsies conducted by a friend of my father. At his elbow, I had learned the pathology of a turkey. To most, a turkey is meant to be eaten as a special holiday food.

However, there is a flip side to this bird. You see, a turkey is generally thought to be domesticated.  But, that's not always the case -- a turkey (especially the male gender) will not simply hang around. One cannot measure a male turkey's 'hang time' like a golf ball in flight. For proof, I said, study the turkey's Latin name as I wrote it on a table napkin. 'Meleagris Gallopavo'.

That's it. Study both words very, very carefully. Note anything in particular in the second word, I asked of my friend?

Lesson? From the Latin term for  turkey, one can suspect its true motives. It's bound to gallop away!

I wasn't much consolation to my friend. Anyway, the padre's day ended fine. The turkey got away and the padre was invited to Christmas dinner by the congregation.

'Maintain Our Memories'

In Memory of Reg.#0.134, NWMP Inspector George Stevens

NWMP Inspector George Stevens

Years ago, circa 1964, there was a sign near the entrance to the 'Depot' stables which read: 'The outside of a horse is good for the inside of a man.' (Author unknown but perhaps Sir Winston Churchill).

Although recommended for the Musical Ride at the conclusion of training in 1965, this Vet never became the expert horseman of the variety of the North West Mounted Police (NWMP). Yet, many of us harbour fond memories of our equitation days because the major part of training had some link to the 'horse'.

NWMP Inspector George Stevens too must have had alot of horse time. Stevens was born in Ireland on May 1, 1844 and he joined the NWMP on April 1, 1885. Part of his career was spent in the Comptroller's Office in Ottawa, Ontario. Eventually, Steven retired on May 1, 1920.

What made Stevens' career a wee-bit unusual? According to 'E' Div Vet. Sheldon Boles, '... Stevens was truly a model workaholic'. Why?

On the date of Stevens' retirement, he was 75 years old and he had worked continually between 1885 to 1920 with no holidays. Horses.

'Maintain Our Memories'


Sources and thanks: Historical files of Vet. Jack White
and review of Stevens' Service File by Vet. Sheldon Boles

In Memory of Reg.#907, NWMP Corporal W. H. T. Lowry

RCMP Honour Roll #12.

Reg.#907, NWMP Cpl. W.H.T. Lowry

William Hay Talbot Lowry was born in Ireland on December 2, 1854. Prior to coming to Canada, he had served as a Captain in the Galway Militia. Coincidently, in Ireland, one of his close pals was Reg.#565, Corporal Ralph Sleigh (Honour Roll #10) as the two attended the same school.

Corporal Lowry initially immigrated to the USA but later came to Canada where he joined the NWMP on June 7, 1883. He was posted to 'D' Division (then Headquartered at Battleford, NWT and later to 'E' Division then Headquartered at Calgary, NWT. On May 1, 1885, Corporal Lowry was among 74 NWMP under the command of Lt. Col. W. M. Herchmer proceeding to Cut Knife Reserve.

Briefly, on May 2, 1885, troops under Lt. Col. Otter and the 74 NWMP under Lt. Col. W. M. Herchmer reached Cut Knife Hill and a six hour battle broke out between the allies and the rebels. One of the first to be killed was Corporal Sleigh. His death was followed by the fatal shots to Corporal 'Will' Lowry and NWMP Trumpeter 'Paddy' Burke -- they died on May 3, 1885.

A Memorial to Reg.#907, Cpl. W. H. T. Lowry is found in the Cathedral Church of the Redeemer in Calgary, Alberta. A photo of Cpl. Lowry's Memorial was kindly received from  'E' Div. Vet. Don Klancher's collection.  I thank Don for his kindness.

Corporal Lowry is buried in the Mounted Police Cemetery, Battleford, SK.

'Maintain Our Memories'

In Memory of Reg.# 1376, NWMP Constable John F. Lynch

North West Mounted Police (NWMP) Constable John Franklin Lynch was born in New Westminister, BC. He joined the Force on May 21, 1885. After training in Regina, he was posted to 'F' Div. Shortly afterwards, he was involved in the Riel Rebellion. Later, he was transferred to Calgary in 'K' Div.

Cst. Lynch left the NWMP on May 20, 1891.  Years later, he served in WWI.

The exact date of Cst. Lynch's death is unclear. He was  buried in the Church of England Cemetery,  New Westminster, BC on May 8, 1929. 

Credit: The tombstone photo is from Fraser Cemetery – Church of England Section, New Westminster, BC.

I also wish to thank Mr. & Mrs Ron Lyon for the information about Cst. Lynch as well as for the photo of  Cst. Lynch's gravesite in New Westminister. Cst Lynch is a great-great uncle to Mr. Lyon (on his mother's side).

*More will follow on the life and times of Reg.#1376, Cst. J. F. Lynch including his sad, untimely and unusual death.

'Maintain Our Memories'  

On Parade. Reg.#15427, CSM HM 'Mel' Gilbey (Retired)

In yonder days, one did not know the first name of the Corps Sergeant Major (CSM).  He went by 'Sir'. It was always 'Sir'. Simply one word, 'Sir'.

But, suppose one did know his name, one was very wise never to use it -- it might be traced back to the offender. In foregone days, one was better off not to know the CSM's first name. It was treated much like a corporate leak.

RCMP recruits at 'N' Division and 'Depot' Division presumed that CSM's were born without the fuss of a first name. It was generally accepted that some mothers could predict the future career of their baby sons, that is the RCMP -- one new, proud mother was overheard to say, 'I had a 'Sir'. Even at childbirth, the word 'Sir' would cause everyone to stand as rigid as a parcel of pacing sticks. In delivery rooms across Canada, doctors and nurses wasted alot of time. Frozen, as it were.

The photo here was submitted by Supt. Brian Brennan, OIC Federal Policing, 'H' Div., Halifax, Nova Scotia. It portrays Reg.# 15427, CSM HM Gilbey on the 'N' Div. Parade Square giving commands during rifle drill about the years 1957 to 1959.

CSM Gilbey was born in 1928 and he joined the Force in 1948. He was pomoted to Corporal in 1954, to Sergeant in 1960, to Staff Sergeant in 1962, to Sergeant Major in 1963 and to CSM in 1967.

CSM Gilbey is spoken about fondly to this day. It seems that anyone with a Regimental Number from about Reg.#2 through to Reg.#25000 knew or wanted to know CSM Gilbey. In biblical terms, it could be said that CSM Gilbey was heard before he was seen. 

In fact, some Vets claim that CSM Gilbey's voice was so strong that parliamentarians 'on the Hill' would conduct their business in quiet tones while CSM Gilbey was on the Parade Square. Horses housed in the stables at 'N' Div lost weight when his presence was about. He would cause flies to use alternative flight paths. Even the wind obeyed him.

CSM Gilbey retired from the Force in 1975. Today, he lives in Ottawa. He is active with all Vet activities and enjoys golfing all summer with friends. He is an avid historian about matters connected to the RCMP and he insists on history about the Force being told as correctly as possible.

Over the years, CSM Gilbey has been a firm and steady friend to many of us. I don't allow myself to think of his first name. To me, it's just 'Sir'.

CSM Gilbey deserves it.


'Maintain Our Memories'

Photo: by Supt. Brian Brennan.
Photo used with kind permission of 'Sir'.


J. J. (Joe) Healy
Reg.#23685

Last Post: Reg.#17685 - Sgt. Merlin Julius (Van) Van De Kinder (R'td)

It is with deep sadness that we announce Reg.#17685, (Retired) Sgt. Merlin Julius 'Van' Van De Kinder suffered a fatal heart attack on January lst, 2011 in White Rock, BC. 

'Van' was raised in Cambria near Drumheller, Alberta and joined the RCMP in 1952. He trained at "Depot" and "N" Division.  Following training, 'Van' was posted to "E" Division and served in Kamloops, Salmon Arm, and Revelstoke. 

'Van' opened Clearwater Detachment and was the Cst. i/c.  Later, he served in Blue River, Kelowna, Kitimat and Burnaby Detachments.  At the time of his retirement, he was in Vancouver General Investigation Section. 

During his service, he did a tour with the Musical Ride and took part in a Governor General's Escort.  He was an excellent rider and was invited to be a Riding Instructor, but he declined.  Van loved dogs and after retirement, became a Dog Show Judge.  Because of his ability as a Judge, he was invited to attend Dog Shows all over the world.  He also was an avid sailor and owned a 33 foot CC sailboat. 

The family have requested an Honour Guard.  The time, date and location of the service has yet to be decided.  This information will be the subject of a further notice. 

For condolences, please contact Sandy Van De Kinder at 604-536-0434.   

Source: 'E' Div. Vet. Sheldon Boles [mailto:seboles@telus.net]

'Maintain Our Memories'

Dedication of Peace to all Police Officers 2011

RCMP/GRC

2011

This white cross is located in the RCMP Cemetery at 'Depot' Division.

The cross is placed on a grave but the deceased name is unknown.

The cross first represents death.

The cross is also a symbol of hope.

Hope is stronger than death.

'Maintain Our Memories'

by

J. J. (Joe) Healy

January 1, 2011

In Memory of Reg.#11735, Constable Leslie Tupper Fyfe

Reg.#11735, Constable Leslie Tupper Fyfe joined the Force on May 1, 1932. After ten years service, he decided to leave and his departure date was April 30, 1942.

During his service, Cst. Fyfe served in 'K', 'G', 'Depot' 'G', 'J' and 'H' Div.

The photo of Cst. Fyfe's grave was sent in by Mr. Dick Pulsifer, Friend of the Force in Nova Scotia. Cst. Fyfe died in 1984. He is buried in Elm Grove Cemetery, Hwy 359, Steam Mill, Kings County, Nova Scotia. His plot is in excellent condition but unfortunately, there is no reference to his service in the Force.

We especially thank Mr. Dick Pulsifer with assistance of Vet. Tom Lowe in Nova Scotia again for their ongoing support and for their research of RCMP/GRC graves.

'Maintain Our Memories'

In Memory of Reg.#864, Constable Campbell Young

History does not record a precise date of birth for our North West Mounted Police (NWMP) Constable Campbell Young -- his eyes may have seen first light about 1862.

Vet. Historian Jack White records that Cst. Young joined the NWMP on November 26, 1882. His first posting was to 'F' Div. (Saskatchewan). He saw action at the outbreak of the Riel Rebellion of 1885. Later, he was posted to 'K' and 'M' Divisions.

There came a time in his brief career that he committed several infractions under the Police Act mostly caused by excessive alcohol. There's always speculation that women might have been involved in his wrongdoing affairs, but we simply can't say if that was the case. Anyway, Cst. Young was asked to resign.

After leaving the NWMP, Young became the Manager of the Northern Trading Company which eventually was absored by the Hudson Bay Co. 

Cst. Young died in 1951 and he is buried in Edmonton, AB.

The photo of Cst. Young's grave was recently received from Edmonton Vet. AJH 'Joe' Collinson.

'Maintain Our Memories'

In Memory of Reg.#21018, Staff Sergeant Donald Craig Keith

In Memory of Reg.#21018, S/Sgt. Donald Craig Keith

Donald Craig Keith was born on July 11, 1938 in Berwick, Nova Scotia. He joined the RCMP on July 16, 1959 and he was posted to several Divisions across Canada. He served in 'N', 'B', 'HQ', 'G', 'M' and 'H' Div's.

S/Sgt. Keith died on April 27, 1982 in Halifax, NS. A photograph was recently taken of S/Sgt. Keith's grave by Ontario Vet. Merle Armstrong.

S/Sgt. Donald Craig Keith is buried in Berwick Cemetery, Berwick, NS

'Maintain Our Memories'.

Last Post: Reg#18808, Peter Borys

Ottawa Division Vets announce that:

Reg.#18808, Insp. Peter Borys (R'td) passed away on the evening of Dec. 25, 2010 in Ottawa, at the age of 77 years. 

Funeral to be held later this week at the RCMP National Memorial at Beechwood Cemetery

Details to follow.

'Maintain Our Memories'

In Memory of Reg.#16386, Corporal John Bell

Corporal John Bell originally served with the British Columbia Provincial Police (BCPP).  His BCPP badge number was 737.

John Bell was born on February 27, 1912 and he joined the BCPP in 1938. He led a unique and distinguished career with the BCPP as he was commended for his police work on two occasions; once in 1943 and again in 1947.

The memorable photo in the upper right shows Cpl. Bell receiving his Long Service Medal (LSM). The other persons in the photo are not yet identified. The photo below (left) is Cpl. Bell's Certificate of RCMP Service which is presented upon one's retirement.

In 1950, John Bell was a BCPP constable posted to Kamloops, BC and it was the same year that the RCMP absorbed the BCPP. Over time, John Bell was promoted to corporal while he continued to work in Kamloops Detachment.

The actual date of transition for John Bell into the RCMP from the BCPP was August 15, 1950. In later years, he was transferred to Penticton Det. and he retired from the Force on December 9, 1966.

After retirement, Corporal Bell returned to the Kamloops area where he was employed by the BC Department of Fish and Wildlife.

In the photo lower right is Cpl. Bell's Discharge Certificate from the RCMP. Cpl. Bell died on October 30, 1987 and he is buried in Comox, BC.
 

The photos in this article belong to the collection of Supt. Brian Brennan, OIC Federal Policing, 'H' Div., Halifax, NS. I thank him for the photos and I also acknowledge Historian Jack White for his contribution of historical facts about the life and times of Cpl. John Bell.

We thank Corporal John Bell for his generous contribution to community as well as his talents in policing to the BCPP and the RCMP.

'Maintain Our Memories'

Buffalo Joe Healy

Obituary: Reg.#18563, Sgt. Ken Taylor - 'J' Div. (NB)

Reg.#18563, Sgt. KE 'Ken' Taylor passed away peacefully at the Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, NB after a brief illness, on December 21, 2010. Ken was born in Vernon, BC, November 7th, 1932, and was the son of the late William and Helen (Machowski) Taylor. He joined the RCMP in 1955, and retired in Fredericton NB, as a Sergeant in 1973.

Ken was stationed in a variety of locations across the Province of New Brunswick. He and his family moved to Rothesay, NB in 1973 when he became Head of Corporate Security for the Irving Companies. In 1977, he established Commercial Investigations and Consultants Limited, which he ran successfully until very recently. Ken is survived by his wife, Joan (Reilly) of 52 years, his son, Terry of Halifax, NS, daughter-in-law, Debbie Carter, of Hampton, sister-in-law, Elaine Davison, and brother-in-law, Donald Reilly. He was predeceased by his daughter, Gail, his son, Brent A, sisters, Dorothy and Kaye, and his brothers, Stan, Jim, Bill and Ron.

Those who knew Ken will remember him as someone with incredible strength, courage, and wit. He was devoted to not only his family, but to his many long time friends. Although he had several medical challenges over the years, he refused to allow physical illness to slow him down or interfere with his active lifestyle. The family have many to thank, but would particularly like to recognize the support received from niece Debbie Gray, Dr. Rob Stevenson, Dr. Josh Tracy and the entire team at the Cardiac Care Unit, Saint John Regional Hospital.

Ken will be resting at Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis, NB. Visiting hours Thursday, December 23rd, 2010, 2 to 4pm and 7 to 9pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Father Michael LeBlanc and con-celebrated by Rev. Wally Collett at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 31 Gondola Point Road, Rothesay, NB, at 11am, Friday, December 24th, 2010.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the NB Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Kidney Foundation of Canada - NB Branch, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Online donations and condolences may be made at: http://www.kennebecasisfh.com/

Credit: Bruce Estabrooks
[bestabro@nb.sympatico.ca]

'Maitain Our Memories'

Reg.#9129, Cst. Bruce Vivian Moore, NWMP

From an Infant Force - the NWMP

This note and the accompanying photo of Cst. Bruce Vivian Moore was received from his niece, Ethel May (Moore) Guertin. Here, Ethel Guertin of Gatineau, QC provides a wee yet personal insight into the life and times of her NWMP uncle, Cst. Moore

Bruce Vivian Moore was born in South Hull, QC on June 18, 1892. He joined the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) on February 16, 1909 at the age of 16 years and 4 months. Cst. Moore remained with the NWMP when it became the RCMP on February 1, 1920.

Cst. Moore  was the youngest of a family of  ten boys and seven girls. The Moore family was born on their farm on Pink Road here in Gatineau, QC. -- that part of the City was then called South Hull.

Bruce Moore was our favourite Uncle and he and Aunt Edna spent a lot of time with us. They were a regular part of our Christmas Day dinners. They always arrived with gifts for all of us. Bruces' wife, our Aunt Edna was not allowed to wrap the presents at Christmas time as that was specifically Uncle Bruce's job.  He insisted on wrapping the presents and he wrapped every one of them beautifully.

Cst Moore retired from the RCMP on February 8, 1938. He died in Ottawa, Ontario on November 22, 1962. Cst. Moore is buried in Bellevue Cemetery which is located on the Aylmer Road in Gatineau, Quebec. 

I have not been able to find a photo of Uncle Bruce in the RCMP uniform but I have a few more leads to follow up.

There is no RCMP crest on his tombstone yet - it sure would be great if there was one present...

 

Thank You.

 

Yours truly,

 

Ethel May (Moore) Guertin

Email: ethel.guertin@videotron.ca

'Maintain Our Memories'

Buffalo Joe

Reg.#OS 193, Sub Constable William H. V. Woods, NWMP

NWMP Connections
 
Sub Constable H. V. Woods was born in Kingston, ON. He joined the NWMP on March 28, 1874.
 
He died in 1905 and he is buried in Cataraqui Cemetery, Kingston, ON.

Mr. Woods' granddaughter, Susan Joiner sent in the photo of a receipt seen here.

Granddaugher Joiner says: 'Here is a scan of the original receipt for the plot for W.H.V. Woods. I treasure it and am thinking seriously of presenting it to the office to see if they will honour it and find space for more of the Woods familyl!!'  What are the odds?


Best wishes.

Sue Joiner,
Granddaughter of OS 193, Sub Constable H. V. Woods

*   PS 1: One can clearly read that the plot for Sub Constable Woods cost $20.00 in 1895.

** PS 2: Reg.# OS 193, Sub-Constable Woods and Reg.# OS 165, Sub-Constable T. Cherry must have been acquaintences as they both were from Kingston, ON and they both joined the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) on the same day: to wit, March 28, 1874. Is it pure coincidence or is it pure Canadian history?

Buffalo Joe

'Maintain Our Memories'

Memorial to Reg.#33580, Cst. Thomas J. Agar

Memorial to Cst. Tom Agar
Honour Roll #166

Dear Joe;

Recently, I sent you the photo's of Cst. Perry's grave and the cemetery service which we held in his memory.

Now, I send you the photos of Cst. Tom Agar who is also buried in Burnaby, BC. A servcie was also held by Burnaby Det. for him.

In review, I recently inspected the graves of Csts. Thomas Agar and Cst. David Perry who were both killed in the line of duty (seperate incidents) and are buried in Burnaby, BC.

I put together a group of eight members with our OIC Detachment and the Detachment Chaplain and inspected both graves on September 24, 2010.

We conducted a small, short ceremony including placing flowers on the grave markers, provided an overview of how the members were killed, a prayer by the chaplain and a moment of silence.

Joe, kindly include the photo's of  Cst. Agar and Cst. Perry in website and in your database, please.
Yours truly,



John A. Buis, S/S/M
Executive NCO to the OIC
Burnaby Detachment
604.294.7697


'Maintain Our Memories'

Memorial to Reg.#19879, Cst. David M. Perry

Memorial to Cst. David Perry.
RCMP Honour Roll #95

This note and the photos were received from S/S/M John Buis, a friend from Burnaby Detachment

Dear Joe;

"My name is John Buis and I am the Executive NCO to the OIC of Burnaby Detachment.

I recently attended the graves of Cst. Thomas Agar and Cst. David Perry who were both killed in the line of duty (seperate incidents) and are buried in Burnaby, BC

I put together a group of eight members with our OIC Burnaby and the Detachment Chaplain and inspected both graves on September 24, 2010. The graves are in excellent condition.

We conducted a small, short ceremony including placing flowers on the grave markers, provided an overview of how the members were killed, a prayer by the chaplain and a moment of silence. The information sheets were laminated and left with the flowers at the grave site.

Joe; I'd appreciate if you would publish these memorable photographs and include them in your website database."

Yours truly,

John A. Buis, S/S/M
Executive NCO to the OIC
Burnaby Detachment
604.294.7697

'Maintain Our Memories'

The Mystery of the Missing Bundle of Bones - C237

Fast Breaking News

Late this evening, this Ottawa Vet. received an alarming phone call which originated from a Funeral Home located in a large Canadian city. It was a disappointing call.

This Vet was told that the remains of our once proud and faithful member of the Force cannot be found. I had hoped for good news today. The mystery has not yet been solved.

I have authorized myself to explain one complicating aspect in the case. Many, many, years ago when the practice of cremation was first introduced into Canada, people held the idea that 'cremation' also included the full burial phase. Such was not the intention of  funeral homes. When some people were told that an additional cost was attached to the next phase (burial), they decided to leave the remains in care of the funeral home versus take responsibility for them. Over many years, funeral businesses have been left with thousands of unclaimed remains.

By law, remains must be retained by the funeral home until they are claimed by a rightful person(s) or until the last day.

In our case, there is a 'faint hope clause' at work. Authorities from the funeral home said that among the thousands of unclaimed 'urn's are hundreds of urns which have tags with ineligible writing. Thus, each 'urn' with an ineligible tag will have to be opened (one by one) and a metal identification marker inside the urn will have to be retrieved. The metal ID marker from inside the urn has the number assigned to the deceased. This Vet has been told there is a 'slight' possibility that our member may be identified by this method.

In the meantime, this Vet. also had a conversation with the active RCMP investigator involved in the Mystery of the Missing Bundle of Bones. The investigator had followed up on a helpful clue. The investigator said: 'that ...

To be continued.

'Maintain Our Memories'

Buffalo Joe
Ottawa Vet.

The Mystery of the Missing Bundle of Bones (2010) - C237 continuation

The Mystery of the Missing Bundle of Bones was partly revealed a few short weeks ago. Sure enough this Mystery has caused blood vessels in some investigators to congeal. Afterall, I innocently contributed to an unforeseen leak. Another leak will not happen. Others related to the case have become more fearful of the final outcome while others have decided to leave the case entirely.

In the meantime, hot leads have been uncovered in the case and new research techniques have been tested and are presently being employed. To break this case, only the most strong willed can continue! Only now do I realize that more expertise is required. In short, it's now a JFO.

The Mystery of the Missing Bundle of Bones continues to baffle this Vet. who is supervising the overall operation. This Vet. is one who has spent years and years in dark dungeon like libraries, and cold storage lockers otherwise known inside the secretive mortuary business as 'bone dust vaults'. There is no need here to overstate the atmosphere in chilly places such as lonely cemeteries of the sort that exist in New Brunswick. There, cemeteries are also known as 'huddle grounds for ghosts'. My single curt instruction to the JFO was this: 'If bones go missing, the tail follows the dog!' Canis Meus!

Hundreds of readers have been following the case. One person said '...he felt as thought he was caught in a snare -- meaning that he hopes the outcome of the Mystery will be favourable to the investigators. 'Free them', he said!' 

Late tonight, I have been authorized to announce that a highly professional friend inside the RCMP with stellar investigative skills and a steely mind has been brought into the case. He/she will not be sleeping tonight! More than hope is expected from the JFO.

To be continued...

'Maintain Our Memories'

Buffalo Joe

Searching for uncle - Paddy Ainsworth

Deceased Member Search

This note asking for research help in Canada has been received.

Dear Sir;

I wish to trace my uncle Paddy Ainsworth (my dad's brother) who moved to Canada from the west of Ireland in or around 1925/40. I understand that he worked with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

I have often thought about him, but kmow very little about his time in Canada, if you can help it would be appreciated, many thanks.

Breege
burnmasteradv@eircom.net

**A reply has been sent to Mr. Bourke saying that I had no record of 'Paddy' Ainsworth, but that he may also wish to write to the RCMP in Ottawa asking for more study.

'Maintain Our Memories'

Buffalo Joe

Reg. #37760, Cst. Brian Mervin Powell (M.B.) - Medal of Bravery

Cst.Brian Mervin Powell  - Medal of Bravery. CO's Commendation  and Police Officer of the Year.

This photo is owned by Mr. Graham Powell (father of Cst. Powell) who gave permission to Supt. Brian Brennan, OIC Federal Policing in 'H' Div. (Nova Scotia) to send it to me. It also appeared in The Quarterly, V51(2) 1986.

In the photo, Cst. Brian Powell (left) is receiving the Commanding Officer`s Commendation at the hand of CO `H` Div., C/Supt. D. Henry.

Briefly, Cst. Powell was on patrol at night in October, 1984 when he noticed fire and smoke coming from a home. Cst. Powell entered the home by breaking a window and successfully opening the door. The interior of the house was in flames, but Cst. Powell searched each room. In the final room, he found a man unconscious on the floor.

The man could not relieved so Cst. Powell began to carry the man out of doors. However, finding his pathway engulfed in flames, Cst. Powell retreated. He then smashed another window with his feet. Cst. Powell was able to get the unconscious man out of the house and the two of them fell head first about ten feet. The man was taken to the hospital and Cst. Powell was slightly injured.

At a later date, the Medal of Bravery was presented to Cst. Powell by Governor General Jeanne Sauve. He was also named 'Police Officer of the Year'.

Cst. Powell is the son of Graham and Joan Powell.  He died in Halifax, Nova Scotia on June 28, 1993 at the age of 32 years. Brian Powell was married to Shirley Young-MacDonald and their infant daughter had predeceased him.

Their daughter, Lindsey Michelle was buried with her father, Cst. Brian Mervin Powell, RCMP. M.B.

'Maintain Our Memories'

by, Supt. Brian Brennan, Halifax, NS and
Buffalo Joe Healy, Ottawa, ON