Ottawa Police Service Hosts Inaugural Flag Raising Ceremony at Beechwood

On the afternoon of June 202 2025, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) held its inaugural Flag Raising Ceremony at the OPS Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood. This event was a powerful and dignified tribute commemorating over 170 years of service to the people of Ottawa.

The ceremony marked the beginning of what is intended to become a lasting tradition. It will be an annual event recognizing the service, sacrifice, and deep-rooted connection between the OPS and the community it protects. The gathering brought together representatives from across the policing community. Members of the OPS, the Ottawa Police Association (OPA), the Senior Officers’ Association (SOA), and the Ottawa Police Veterans Association were in attendance, along with the new OPS Mounted Unit, members of the Ceremonial Guard, OPS leadership, community partners, and members of the public. Their presence served as a collective affirmation of support and respect.

The ceremony opened with remarks from the Master of Ceremonies, who acknowledged the historic significance of the moment:

“The flag we raise today is not just a national symbol, it is a powerful reminder of duty, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bond between law enforcement and the people of Ottawa.”

Chief Eric Stubbs reflected on the legacy and future of the Service, honouring those who have served while speaking to the OPS’s continued role in community safety and trust. Matt Cox, President of the Ottawa Police Association, delivered heartfelt remarks on the day-to-day dedication of all employees and the shared sense of mission that unites past and present members of the force. Their words captured the enduring spirit of the Service, one built on integrity, resilience, and deep ties to the people and streets of Ottawa. 

Following these reflections, piper Brad Hampson performed The Lament, creating a bridge to a moment of silence for all OPS members who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. This solemn tribute took place just steps away from the very resting places of those remembered, officers who gave their lives in service to their city and country.

“Ottawa is not only our home, it is the capital of Canada. And with that comes a sacred responsibility: to protect not just a city, but the institutions and ideals that define our national identity.”

As the Canadian flag was raised above the OPS Memorial Cemetery, attendees stood in unity and sang O Canada. The moment was both ceremonial and symbolic, a reaffirmation of the Service’s enduring duty to protect and serve the citizens of Canada’s capital.

The Ottawa Police Mounted Unit paraded past the flagpole in a gesture of dignity and honour, evoking tradition and strength. Their presence added a powerful visual reminder of the long-standing service ethos carried by OPS members across generations.

The inaugural ceremony not only recognized over 170 years of OPS history. It established a legacy for the future.

“This ceremony honours not just the past, but the present and the path ahead. It reminds us that we raise more than a flag, we raise a standard of duty, unity, and remembrance.”

Thank you to all who joined us for this meaningful and historic moment. Together, we affirmed that the flag will continue to fly not only above the cemetery grounds but in the spirit of those who serve, protect, and remember.