Honouring Commissioner Maurice Jean Nadon: Unveiling of a Commemorative Plaque
On May 23, 2024, a momentous occasion unfolded as a special plaque was unveiled near the Main Monument in a cemetery, dedicated to celebrating the exemplary leadership of some of Canada's Commissioners of the Mounted Police. Today marked the unveiling of the first plaque, paying homage to Commissioner Maurice Jean Nadon, who served from 1974 to 1977.
As the ceremony commenced, Veterans Affairs Canada Minister Petitpas-Taylor, Mrs. Suzanne Nadon-Metcalfe, Deputy Commissioner Boudreau, retired Commissioners Philip Murray, Bev Busson, and Brenda Lucki, Ottawa Division President Wayne Jacquard, and other members of Commissioner Nadon’s family were invited to come forward and participate in the unveiling.
Maurice Nadon, hailing from Mattawa, Ontario, held the distinguished position as the 16th Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. His appointment brought with it a wealth of police and investigative experience garnered from across Canada. Commissioner Nadon's tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to steering the Force through challenges of public scrutiny, championing modernization, and fostering significant change. Notably, he played a pivotal role in directing operations during the 1976 XXIst Olympiad in Montréal and advocated for intensified efforts against organized crime.
Under his visionary leadership, crucial modernization initiatives were undertaken, including the transformation of the RCMP's Canadian Police College and Canadian Police Information Centre to bolster law enforcement capabilities nationwide. Commissioner Nadon's impact extended far beyond administrative changes; he was instrumental in establishing the RCMP's first national Native Policing Branch, instituting the First Nations Special Constable Program, and implementing Cross-Cultural training and Police-Community Relations units nationwide.
His transformative initiatives also encompassed the development of the RCMP Member Staff Relations Program, pioneering francophone cadet training, advocating for paid overtime, and championing the integration of women into the RCMP. In recognition of his enduring contributions, Commissioner Nadon's legacy lives on through various honours, including the naming of a patrol vessel and the RCMP's National Headquarters as the "Nadon" and "MJ Nadon Government of Canada Building," respectively.
Throughout his remarkable 37-year career, Commissioner Maurice Jean Nadon exemplified visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and a tireless commitment to the service of Canada and its people. As we unveil this plaque in his honour, may it serve as a lasting tribute to his legacy and an inspiration for generations to come, reminding us of the profound impact of dedicated leadership in shaping our nation's history.