During this leg of the operation, the crew of the PV Mackenzie will be participating in two community events hosted by the Northwest Territories RCMP, and the Canadian Armed Forces, Joint Task Force (North). Chief Superintendent Ron Smith, Commanding Officer of the G Division RCMP will be meeting the participants in the community events before going on to meet the patrol.
On July 14, a community tea will be held in Tsiigehtchic. On July 15, a community Bbq is being held in Fort McPherson. Chief Superintendent Smith will also be paying his respects at the graves of RCMP Constables, and Special Constables who are laid to rest in Tsiigehtchic and Fort McPherson. He will also be visiting the memorial for those who were laid to rest from the Lost Patrol of 1911.
These community visits provide the opportunity to reflect on the contributions Northerners have made and continue to make to RCMP operations. Northerners have a long history of assisting the RCMP as guides, interpreters, seamstresses, and cooks: providing life‑sustaining operational support.
“It’s a good feeling for me as the Commanding Officer of the RCMP in the Northwest Territories to know that there is abundant traditional knowledge held by the people along the Mackenzie River. Whether we are looking for guidance when searching for an overdue hunter, or looking for a safe route on the land, that skill and knowledge is immeasurable. I look forward to meeting with community members and thanking them for sharing that skill and knowledge with us,” stated Chief Superintendent Ron Smith, Commanding Officer of the G Division RCMP.
On July 16, the crew of the PV Mackenzie will be travelling to Inuvik, NT.
Updates will be provided for the public to follow the patrol as it continues north. Photos of the patrol will be provided when possible.
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