AUPE members to take part in Police and Peace Officers Memorial Day events
EDMONTON – Over 100 peace officers represented by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees will attend Police and Peace Officers Memorial Day ceremonies in Edmonton and Ottawa this Sunday to honour colleagues that have fallen in the line of duty.
“Each year our members solemnly mark Police and Peace Officers Memorial Day to honour their colleagues who have given their lives in the name of public security and safety,” said AUPE President Doug Knight.
“The dangerous work undertaken by our members often goes unrecognized, so they take enormous pride in having this very public opportunity to reflect on and respect those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while fulfilling their duties,” Knight added.
Well over 100 members will take part in the Alberta ceremony being held at the South Legislature grounds, including full-dress Local 003 Honour Guard members from every adult correctional facility in Alberta. Members will also take part in an officers parade led by the Massed Pipes and Drum Band prior to the 1 p.m. ceremony.
A delegation of AUPE members will also attend the national ceremony in Ottawa including five members from Correctional Services, two Alberta Sheriffs, and a Transportation Officer.
AUPE represents peace officers represented by Local 003 (Solicitor General and Public Security) and Local 005 (Natural Resources and Conservation Services) who serve in a several important capacities — including Sheriffs, Forest Officers, Probation Officers, Correctional Peace Officers, Conservation Officers, Fish and Wildlife Officers, Parks Officers and Transportation Officers.
Police and Peace Officers Memorial Day was officially proclaimed in 1998. In July the Government of Alberta unveiled a permanent monument called “The Pillar of Strength” on the South Legislature grounds where families and friends can lay wreaths to honour police and peace Officers that have died while performing their duties.
In recognition of the 10th anniversary of Police and Peace Officers Memorial Day, 4 Wing of Canadian Forces Bay Cold Lake will provide a fly-over.
Related Links:
Click here for event information provided by the Government of Alberta (pdf link)Click here for a Government of Alberta list of peace officers killed in the line of duty since 1876 (pdf link)