In Memory of Reg.#12511, Sgt. 'Jimmy' Coughlin

In Memory of Reg.#12511, Sgt. 'Jimmy' Coughlin

'Friends Not Forgotten'

In August 1964, 'G' Troop 64/65 was squaded at 'Depot'. One of our jobs on the first day was to dig a grave under the supervision of Riding Instrutor Cpl. ‘Dee’ Jessiman. Our Troop did not know whose grave it was at dig time, but later we learned that it was for Reg.#12511, Sgt. Jimmy Coughlin.

Our Troop celebrated our 40th Reunion in 2004 at 'Depot'. Some of the 'dig detail' went to the cemetery to visit (center picture above) and pay respects at the grave of Sgt. Coughlin.

Although our Troop knew that Sgt. Coughlin had once been a famous Canadian boxer, our Troop had ever seen a picture of him. Until ...

Last week, Mr. Jim Robertson of Ottawa sent his collection of photos to me. Included among them was one photo of his uncle (Reg.#10793) and one of his his father (Reg.#12911).

And surprisingly, included among Mr. Robertson's collection was a photo of Sgt. Coughlin and hark...here he is, standing, bald and very much alive!

Having hands and a brief discussion with the Queen Mother, no less!

Our thanks and appeciation are extended to Mr. Jim Robertson of Ottawa who was kind enough to share his collection of photos with me. Thank you Jim.

Our Troop dug Sgt. Coughlin's grave forty eight years ago. Finally, 'G' Troop now knows the likeness of 'The Boxer', Sgt. 'Jimmy' Coughlin. 

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,
Reg.#23685

In Memory of Reg.#7501, Constable W. J. Henderson

X

In Memory of RNWMP Reg.#7501,

Constable William John Henderson

WWI

Canadian Expeditionary Force (Siberia)

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Private (Constable) W. J. Henderson's cause of death is listed as menengitis. He is buried in a Canadian Plot in the Russian Naval Cemetery, Cherkov, Russia -- which is about 3 miles to the southeast of Vladivostok. He was a great uncle to RCMP Reg.#16768, Vet. 'Bud' Squair (engaged in 1951).

W. J. Henderson is not on the RCMP Honour Roll due to his 'death circumstances' but he is commemorated in Canada's
National Book of Remembrance.

He died on December 29, 1918 -- at 19 years of age.

Contributors and Appreciation: 'E' Div Vet Sheldon Boles

For more, read 'Vet of the Month - May, 2010 by Vet. Bud Squair

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

In Memory of O.170, Inspector George Wallace Currier

In Memory of O.170, Inspector George Wallace Currier

'FRIENDS NOT FORGOTTEN'

Reg.#1943, G. W. Currier joined the Force in 1887. He was promoted through the ranks to Sergeant Major. At one point, for reasons unclear, yet at his own request, Currier reverted from Sergeant Major to Staff Sergeant. He received his Commission in 1912.

Prior to the Force, he had three years previous service in the 43rd Btt'n of the Ottawa and Carleton Rifles, Ottawa, ON.

On July 16, 1895, George Currier was an eye witness to a frightening incident at Battleford, SK which was caused by the weather.

On that date, Battleford was the scene of a severe thrunderstorm. At one moment, a bolt of lightning struck the QM Stores and passed into the canteen killing the dog at the feet of George Currier. From the canteen, the lightening then passed into Reg.#2606 McPhail's room tearing his blanket and partially melting the barrel of his carbine! 

Over the years, Inspector Currier was posted to 'K' Div., the 'Depot' Band and 'F' Div. He served until 1924.

Inspector Currier died in 1938. He is buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Vancouver, BC.

Contributors and Appreciation: Vet. Jack White for the story line and

'E' Div. Vet Don Klancher for the snap of Inspector Currier.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

In Memory of Reg.#10793, James A. S. Robertson

In Memory of Reg.#10793, James Alan Stone Robertson

'Friends Not Forgotten'

This photo of Reg.#10793, J. A. S. Robertson was recently received from his son, Mr. Jim Robertson of Ottawa, ON

The photo of his father was taken in 1932 at Cabin Lake which is believed to be located around Kenora, Ontario. 

Thank you. We are very grateful to Mr. Jim Robertson, Jr. for his collection of photos and for his support of www.rcmpgraves.com

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

In Memory of O.453, Inspector R. W. Duff

Inspector Duff joined the Force in 1931 and he retired to pension in 1965. He died in 1977 and he is buried in Prince Albert, SK.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

In Memory of Reg.#13490, Sergeant D. A. Deeks

 In Memory of Reg.#13490, Donald  Alfred Deeks

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Donald Alfred Deeks was born in 1917. He joined the Force in 1940 and spent his twenty five year career between 'F' and 'E' Div's. 'Don' retired in 1965.

In the photo above, Sgt. Donald Deeks (right) is presented with the 'Caring Canadian Award' which he richly deserved. The Award was presented to Sgt. Deeks (retired) by Commissioner Murray.

Sadly, Sgt. Deeks died in 2001 which was shortly after he had accepted the Award.

Sgt. Deeds was nominated for the Caring Canadian Award by Veteran Ron Smith of Regina, SK

Photo Source: The Quarterly (RCMP)

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

Last Post: Reg.#44332, Constable Mel J G. Mullett

Last Post: Reg.#44332, Constable Mel J G. Mullett

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Reg.# 44332, Cst. 'Mel' J.G. Mullett,  a serving member of Campbell River Detachment, 'E' Div. passed away on February 9th, 2012 following a long battle with cancer. He joined the Force in 1993.

Mel's death was announced yesterday and a moment of silence in his memory was given by Chaplain Charlie Massey. Many of our members either worked with or knew Mel over the years.

Memorial Service details have not yet been finalized. 

Contributor: Steve Holotuk CFE, CIP

Kamloops RCMP Vets [mailto:kamloopsrcmpva@shaw.ca]

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,
Reg.#23685

Last Post: Reg.#12678 (Rt'd) S/Sgt. Frank B. Weeks

 Last Post: Reg.#12678 (Rt'd) S/Sgt. Frank Bennett Weeks

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Obituary:

Regina Chaplain Rev. Allan Higgs tells us that Reg.#12678, S/Sgt. Frank Bennett Weeks passed away quietly about 8:30 p.m. Friday, February 10th, 2012. 

Frank was the oldest Veteran, and by Regimental Number the most senior Veteran in Saskatchewan.

Frank engaged in the Force on 28/06/1935. He served in 'F' Div. until his retirement 01/03/1959.  He was a Life Member of the Regina Vets.

He is survived by two grandsons. One, Kevin Hynd, resides in Regina.

Tentative plans are for a Memorial Service at 'Depot' on Saturday February 18th, 2012 with Chaplin Higgs conducting the service.

Confirmation of the Memorial will be publized soon.

Contributor: Steve Holotuk CFE, CIP

Kamloops RCMP Vets [mailto:kamloopsrcmpva@shaw.ca]

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,
Reg.#23685

Last Post: Reg.#23783, Sgt. Robert M. G. Blair

Last Post: Reg.#23783, Sgt. Robert M. G. Blair

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Obituary

It is our sad duty to report that Reg.# 23783,(R'td.) Sgt. Robert 'Bob' M.G. Blair passed away on February 4, 2012 in Calgary, AB.

Bob joined the Force on 07/01/1965. He served in 'E', 'HQ', 'H', 'A' & 'K' Div.'s. I knew Bob from the time he graduated from 'Depot'.

Many of Bob's old friends will recall the wonderful and exciting events that he experienced during his term in the mid 1960's on 'B' Unit, Freeway Patrol near Vancouver, BC, 'E' Division.

At that time, Bob's NCO i/c on Unit 'B' was the famous Reg.#15139, S/Sgt. 'Max' Hochstetter. Other members at Unit 'B' whom Bob worked with included: Sid Slade, Bob Bernstein, S/Sgt. Harry Beveridge, Joe Leslie (a pilot who went with Air Canada) and Dan Hayes (helicopter pilot, who was killed while working with a BC company on high altitude heli-skiing).

I recall hearing Bob's voice on the police radio many, many times as he responded to an accident on the Freeway or perhaps a high speed chase which had originated out of Vancouver. Bob was born with Highway Patrol duties in his heart. It's where he was the most happy .

Bob retired on 08/01/2002. At retirement time, he was stationed on the Red Deer City Traffic. Farewell friend.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685 

Contributor:

Steve Holotuk CFE, CIP

Kamloops RCMP Vets [mailto:kamloopsrcmpva@shaw.ca]

RCMP Members shot in 'K' Div., (Alberta)

RCMP Members shot in 'K' Div., (Alberta)

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Early this evening (February 7, 2012) CBC TV began to report that two RCMP members had been shot in a small town south east of Edmonton, AB. The two members had been air lifted to hospitals in Edmonton. Their condition is not known at 2100H central time.

All members of the Force from coast to coast to coast are deeply affected by incidents in which our members are assaulted, injured or killed. In spite of having been well trained to confront dangerous incidents, every police officer hopes that everyone on shift remains safe and that no one is hurt. 

Our prayers are with these two members and their families during the night and in the following days.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy
Reg.#23685.

Retirement of Reg.#30580 / O.1765 P. German

This announcement from the Commissioner

Retirement of Deputy Commissioner Peter German

I have been informed that D/Comm'r. Peter German will be leaving the RCMP to take on a new challenge at Correctional Service Canada (CSC) as the Regional Deputy Commissioner Pacific Region effective March 22, 2012.  

Peter has had a long and rewarding 31-year career with the RCMP. I consider him a friend and am truly thankful for his contribution to making the RCMP a world-class institution. 

I know his experience will be greatly valued at CSC, as it has been here among his friends and colleagues. 

As many of you know, we are currently reviewing the roles of our RCMP Regions. We will not pursue any appointments for the Deputy Commissioner West until this review is complete. 

Please join me in thanking Peter for his immense contribution to the world of policing and wishing him well in his new position. 

Bob Paulson

Commissioner 

'Maintain Our Memories'

Last Post: Reg.#33500, (Rt'd) Cst. A. W. Campbell

Last Post: Reg.#33500, (Rt'd) Cst. A. W. Campbell

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Obituary:

'H' Div. Vets sadly announce that Reg. #33500, (Rt'd.) Cst. Alexander William Campbell passed away on February 2, 2012 in Albert Bridge, NS.

Son of the late William and Margaret (MacLean) Campbell, Alex was born in Glace Bay, NS. His career began in the Military Police and later, he joined  the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. He retired from the RCMP, after serving in PEI, NL. and NS.

Alex is survived by his beloved wife and best  friend, Linda (Dickinson); daughters, Wendy Boisvert (Marc), Ottawa, Ont., Yvonne Mandis (Peter), Gray, TN, USA, Karen Campbell (Carlos MacDonald (Bill), Ridgeway, ON.; grandchildren, Brady and Eric Boisvert, George and Gillian Mandis, KT Crewe and Trystan and Taylor MacDonald; brothers, Robert (Diane), Alex is also survived by nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins, primarily in N.S. and ON.

"Be at peace dear husband, father and grandfather; we loved you then, we love you now and we'll love you always."

A special thank you is extended to Dr. Brian Kerley, the palliative care unit at St. Catharines General Hospital and the CCAC for all their care, compassion and support. 

Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

Last Post: Reg.#14783, (Rtd) S/Sgt. James R. Allen

Last Post: Reg.#14783, (Rtd) S/Sgt James 'Jim' R. Allen

'Friends Not Forgotten' 

'K' Div. Vets are sad to announce that Reg.# 14783 (Rtd.) S/Sgt. James R. Allen passed away on February 1, 2012 in Edmonton AB. 

'Jim' was a member of the Force from December, 1946 until his retirement in 1972.  He served in 'K' Div. (Alberta) 

Respectful of Jim's special request there will be no funeral or memorial service. 

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy

Reg.#23685

In Memory of Reg.#30326, Cpl. James Leroy Duggan

Memorial to Reg.#30326,
Cpl. James Leroy Duggan
'Act of Bravery'

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Cpl. James Leroy Duggan was born on April 2, 1952, at Antigonish, NS and he joined the Force in Halifax on his birthday in 1973.

Cpl. Duggan underwent Basic Training at 'Depot', Regina, SK. Afterwards, he was posted to 'B' Div. (NL) and then to 'H' Div. (NS) where he was serving at the time he passed away.

He was awarded the RCMP Long Service Medal, Gold Clasp and Star. He was also awarded a CO's Commendation for bravery following an serious accident in May 2008 involving his police cruiser.

After the accident, Cpl. Duggan was able to exit the police cruiser. He then attended to his partner and saved his life -- the cruiser had gone over a rocky cliff and was resting unside down in sea water!

Over the years, the spirit and generousity of Cpl. Jim Duggan is, I believe, the kind of character which built the Force.

Cpl. 'Jim' Duggan died at Truro, Nova Scotia on June 14, 2008. He was 56 years of age. X PAX

Source: The Quarterly Vol. 74(2) Spring 2009. p.98

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

In Memory of Reg.#5685, Cpl. Michael O'Leary

C A N A D A  

IN MEMORY OF

REG.#5685, CPL. MICHAEL O'LEARY

'FRIENDS NOT FORGOTTEN'

'Aside from all the criticism, some of which is truly deserving, the RCMP can justify it's proud history in Canada and in other places.' JJH

There are many, many acts of bravery performed regularily by RCMP members. Here, the career and the courage of Cpl. O'Leary is told by historian Sgt. Larry Burden of  St. George Detachment, 'J' Div. New Brunswick.

But first, a little background. Constable Michael O'Leary was, without any doubt, a facinating and very determined character.

He joined the Royal North West Mounted Police (RNWMP) in 1913. He served in Battleford, SK and 'Depot'. While in the Force, he had a wee dram of trouble with his supervisors and he appeared in Service Court.  In 1914, Cst. O'Leary 'allowed a prisoner out of his sight' and he was fined $C 2. Then he was off to war.

In 1920, prior to becoming the Chief of Police at Chrystal Beach, ON., Mr. O'Leary was caught smuggling liquor from Canada into the USA. He spent a night or two in the 'bar roon'. All this according to Historian and Vet. (deceased) Jack White's notes.

Now, the courage displayed by Corporal O'Leary...

REG.#5685, CPL. MICHAEL O'LEARY

by Sgt. Larry Burden, RCMP

[On this day in]...1915, like so many of his peers, Reg.#5685, Cpl. Michael O’Leary obtained a discharge from the [Royal North West Mounted Police] RNWMP so that he could serve in WWI with 'A' Company of the Irish Guards.

On this day, [February 1, 1915] while fighting at Cuinchy, France, twenty six year old Lance-Corporal O'Leary rushed a machine gun position and killed five Germans who were holding fast the first barricade. Then, he attacked another machine gun position 60 yards further on killing three more enemy soldiers and taking two other prisoners.

Corporal O' Leary's valour in action resulted in him being awarded the Victoria Cross followed by a promotion to the rank of Sergeant. Soon, he was transferred to the Connaught Rangers and promoted to 1st. Lieutenant. Later, Lieutenant O'Leary's heroism was again recognized when he was serving in Salonika. He was awarded the Russian Cross of St. George. 

Lieutenant O’Leary’s image and reputation were used to recruit Irishmen into the Army. At one pont, his father was also employed as a recruiter, however, he was dismissed after only one speech. While speaking in the Inchigeela district, Mr. O'Leary urged the young Irish men to join the British army stating; ‘If you don’t’, he told them, ‘the Germans will come here and will do to you what the English have been doing for the last seven hundred years.'

After ending the war at the rank of Captain, O'Leary eventually returned to Canada with his wife Margaret Hegarty. He became an Inspector in the Ontario Provincial Police. In 1925 the O'Leary's went to Michigan, USA, and he joined the Michigan Central Police.  Eventually, O'Leary returned to England.

In WWII, O'Leary served with the Middlesex, UK Regiment. He retired at the end of the WWII at ther rank of Major.

Major O'Leary died in England in 1961. He is buried in London's Paddington Cemetery.

'Maintain Our Memories'

Contributor and Appreciation: Sgt. Larry Burden

J. J. Healy

Reg.#23685

In Memory of O.1622, Superintendent James Newman

'FRIENDS NOT FORGOTTEN'

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,
Reg.#23685

In Memory of Reg.#19469, Constable M. M. Melnychukl

Reg.#19469, Constable M. M. Melnychuk

Honour Roll # 93

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Cst. Maurice M. Melnychuk was one of five RCMP members who died in a boating accident in Lake Simcoe, Ontario in 1958. 

Cst. Melnychuk was born in Prince George, BC which was his home town. He is also buried in Prince George.

'Maintain Our Memories'

Contributor and Appreciation: S/S/M D. S. (Doug) Pack

Prince George, BC

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

Presentation to Vets on the Crew of the St. Roch

Reg.#10155, Constable Albert Joseph Chartrand

Honour Roll #104

'A Legend in His Own Time'

Introduction:

Constable Albert Joseph Chartrand was born in 1905 at Ottawa, Ontario. He joined the Force in 1926 and worked as crew on board the St. Roch for fifteen years.

Constable Chartrand died of a heart attack on board the St. Roch at the age of 37 years. He is buried at Pasley Bay, Western Arctic.

Upcoming Presentation for Vets by a Friend of the Force

Guest speaker, Doreen Larsen Riedel is the daughter of Henry Larsen who was Captain of the Mounties’ Arctic schooner 'St. Roch' that 70 years ago this fall, arrived in Halifax Nova Scotia. It had left Vancouver BC in June 1940 and passed by way of the Northwest Passage.

That voyage placed the ship and her crew in the annals of world Maritime history as the first ship to traverse the NWP from West to East . Two years later, Captain Larsen and the St. Roch crew became the first to successfully transit the more northerly deepwater route from East to West. Later the St. Roch became the first ship to circumnavigate North America. 

Even so, the exploits of that ship, which was a floating RCMP detachment, and her crew are largely unknown by most Canadians.

During this 70^th anniversary year, Doreen Riedel will focus on one particular member of the crew of that 1940-42 voyage. The hard life of members of the Force in the Arctic so many years ago can be remembered by some Veterans of the Force, but it should also serve as an inspiration to all of us.

The presentation will be at 7:30PM on February 14, 2012 at the Regular General Meeting in Ottawa.

Ms Riedel's session will have some very sad moments but it will have a surprising and happy ending.

Ms Doreen Riedel will feel at home during her presentation and she will be welcome among all Vets.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,
Reg.#23685

Reg.#14608, Constable Allan K. MacRae and Connections

Ole Connections

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Hi Joe:

I just checked your most recent entries on your "Blog" section and read your article on Reg.#14608 Allan Kenneth McRae.

I knew Allan when he was the Chief of Police at Kentville, NS. He often spoke of his days in the RCMP. He mentioned that he had also taken a course through the American Institution, "Institute of Applied Science". I was not aware of his Military service.

I lastly talked to Allan when we were having a coffee at a local shop. I lost track of him after that day and it was only recently that I spoke to the Mayor of Kentville, in an effort to determine where Allan might be.

I am, indeed, sorry to learn of his passing in 2003 but, now I know and I wish to thank everyone who helped to make this information available.

Best Regards, 

Dick Pulsifer

Friend of the Force

NS Vets

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685

Last Post: Reg.#29185, Sgt. James Patrick 'Pat' McKernan

'Friends Not Forgotten'

Obituary

Reg.# #29185 (Rtd.) Sgt. James Patrick "Pat" McKernan. March 21, 1950 - January 18, 2012. 

Pat was a member of the Force from 1971-08-16 until his retirement on 1995-01-18. All of Pats service was in “E” Div.

It is with great love and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of James Patrick (Pat) McKernan on Wednesday, January 18, 2012 at the age of 61 years. Although his life here with us was much shorter than any of us had hoped, Pat lived a very full, meaningful and vibrant life and will be remembered above all as a devoted family man.

Pat is survived by his beloved wife of thirty-eight years, Lucille (Lucy) McKernan, children Jenn (Jeff), Shaun (Casi), Ryan (Lisa), grandchildren Max, Sam, Maddie, Ellie, Brody and Shelby, and siblings Michael (Cindy), Gerry (Chris), Dennis (Nana), Maureen, Kevin (Dana), and Tim (Linda).

He was predeceased by his parents Lillian Margaret (Betsy) and Reginald McKernan and twin granddaughters Katherine Diane and Emma Grace Stephenson.

Relatives and friends are invited to Prayer Service Mass at St. Michael Catholic Community Church (800 - 85 Street S.W.) on Wednesday, January 25, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.

 A Celebration of Life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY'S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W., Calgary, AB) on Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com .

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, 620 Colborne Street, Suite 301, London, Ontario, Canada N6B 3R9 (Toll Free 1-800-265-5106). In living memory of Pat McKernan, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park.

'Maintain Our Memories'

J. J. Healy,

Reg.#23685