Honouring the Guidon: A Ceremony at the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood
On November 9, 2024, the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood hosted a profound ceremony to honour the Guidon of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Unique among Commonwealth police forces, the RCMP holds the distinction of being the only non-military organization to possess a regimental Colour—a Guidon—granted by the Sovereign.
A Symbol of Honour and History
The Guidon is a reflection of the RCMP’s storied legacy, symbolizing distinguished service and sacrifice. Its swallow-tail design, a nod to the traditions of light cavalry regiments, is emblazoned with the RCMP's Regimental Badge, the Royal Cypher of the reigning Monarch, and abbreviations NWMP, RNWMP, and RCMP-GRC, each honouring historic names of the Force.
Commemorating Service Across Eras
The Guidon carries six Corps Operational Honours, each commemorating the RCMP’s service during pivotal moments in history:
- Northwest Canada 1885
- South Africa 1900-02
- France and Flanders 1918
- Siberia 1918-19
- Second World War 1939-45
- Afghanistan 2003-14
An Honourary Distinction, first awarded in 1957, also acknowledges the service of No. 1 Provost Company (RCMP) during the Second World War as part of the Canadian Provost Corps.
A Legacy of Presentation
The first RCMP Guidon was consecrated in 1935 and presented at Depot Division in Regina, Saskatchewan, by the Governor General of Canada on behalf of King George V. This tradition continued with the second Guidon by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973. Most recently, in 2023, the current Guidon was consecrated and presented by the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan on behalf of King Charles III.
The RCMP National Memorial Cemetery ceremony included unveiling a commemorative plaque celebrating the Guidon’s history and significance. Special guests participated in the unveiling by Madame Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs Canada RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme Major-General Simon Trudeau, Canadian Forces Provost Marshall Wayne Jacquard, President, RCMP Veterans Association – Ottawa Division. Joining them were RCMP veterans who served during the Afghan mission Staff Sergeant Major Marc Dureau Sergeant David Muirhead Assistant Commissioner Graham Muir
Honouring the Past and Inspiring the Future
The event highlighted the enduring connection between the RCMP and the nation it serves. The RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood provided a fitting backdrop for this moment of remembrance and reflection. As the Guidon stands as a symbol of service and sacrifice, the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery ensures that the legacy of those who have served is preserved for future generations.
Beechwood Cemetery is honoured to be the guardian of this history and to play a role in celebrating the service and contributions of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.