Message from the Corps Sergeant Major Honouring Cst. Heidi Stevenson
April 24, 2020
RCMP Veterans’ Association
Members Helping Members
This information is being provided to all Association Members
A Message From CSM Al McCambridge
Dear Association Members,
CSM Al McCambridge has asked that the following message be distributed to our membership.
James Forrest
Director of Communications
RCMP Veterans’ Association
Message from the Corps Sergeant Major honouring fallen member Cst. Heidi Stevenson
Each one of us has been affected by the tragic shooting that occurred earlier this week in H Division. We are mourning the loss of so many lives, including one of our own, Constable Heidi Stevenson. Ordinarily, we would mourn Heidi’s sacrifice together, with full regimental honours. For the time being, due to the restrictions placed upon us by the COVID-19 pandemic, the family will be holding a private funeral for Heidi.
Although this is not our traditional way to honour a fallen colleague, these are exceptional times. The family are strong supporters of the RCMP and the fight against the COVID pandemic, and we are honouring Heidi’s memory by following the physical distancing measures in place.
At a later time, we will hold an RCMP Memorial Service for Heidi with elements from our traditional regimental ceremony. We will grieve together, and stand alongside Heidi’s family to show them that they are not alone. In the meantime, please continue sending in your condolence messages to RCMP.Condolences-Condoleances.GRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
Remember that we are not alone in our grief. Entire communities in Nova Scotia, and across Canada, are mourning the loss of family members, friends and neighbours. We must adapt to our current environment and set a proper example by following the same rules that everyone across Canada must follow when saying goodbye to their loved ones at this time. Even as we stand alone, our hearts and minds will all be together with Heidi, her family and our RCMP family in “H” Division.
At sunrise on April 25th, all flags will return to full-mast. This is with the exception of H Division, who will continue to fly their flags at half-mast, as directed by the Province of Nova Scotia and approved by the Commissioner.
To see how you can participate in tributes and virtual vigils for Heidi and the other victims of the Nova Scotia tragedy, please visit our Infoweb page: http://infoweb.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/memoriam/index-eng.htm
As a final note, I encourage employees, as duties permit, to join Canadians in wearing red tomorrow in honour of all the Nova Scotia victims. We grieve together with Canada.
Thank you, be safe,
Al McCambridge
Corps Sergeant Major
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