The sullen buzz of bagpipes reverberated in Ottawa’s downtown, last Sunday, as police and peace officers gathered on Parliament Hill to remember their fallen comrades.
The memorial service drew hundreds of officers from across the nation, and an equally large number of onlookers who came to show their support. Governor General David Johnston was among those in attendance.
“By ensuring our safety, at times risking your own lives to do so, the members of the extended law enforcement family are helping to maintain harmony in our communities and contributing to Canada’s enviable reputation as a peaceful nation,” Johnston said.
Doug Marshall and Karoline Klüg came to support nine union members who work at Parks Canada as Peace Officers. “Most Canadians probably aren’t aware that four Park Wardens have died in the line of duty since 1980,” said Marshall. “Park Wardens, like all members of the vast law enforcement community, put their lives at risk to protect their fellow Canadian citizens. It’s great that they are being honoured here today,” he added.
Also spotted among the crowd were Jennifer Ho (RVP-BC & Yukon), Marc Danis (HR-Rep-Manitoba), Yvon Beaudoin (A/RVP-Quebec), Angela Decker (RVP-Atlantic), Geoff Ryan (ARVP-AB, NT & Nunavut) and Sandra Bello (ARVP-Ontario) who were in town for a planning committee. Several union staff members also were present: Suzanne Boucher, Susan Phillips, Franco Picciano, and Ben René.
A number of memorials were also held across Canada.
For more pictures from Sunday’s memorial, please visit our Flickr site.