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RCMP National Memorial Cemetery Cenotaph

Origins and Early Advocacy

The origins of the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood trace back to the vision and dedication of Chief Superintendent Bill Becker (retired). In the years leading up to 2002, Becker spearheaded an initiative to establish a dedicated burial ground for RCMP Veterans within Beechwood Cemetery, the national cemetery of Canada. Letters were sent to members of the RCMP Veterans’ Association, Ottawa Division, seeking their support for this endeavour. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with roughly 80% in favour.

This strong backing led to the formation of a Cemetery Committee, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Roy Berlinquette (retired), to design and prepare for the official opening of the RCMP Veterans’ Cemetery in September 2002. The establishment of this cemetery was a landmark moment, recognizing the service and sacrifices of RCMP members and providing a dedicated final resting place for them and their families.

From Veterans' Cemetery to National Memorial

In late 2006, under the guidance of the Commissioner, the RCMP Veterans’ Cemetery was officially designated as the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery (RNMC). At this time, the RCMP formally recognized all of its cemeteries as national cemeteries, including the Regimental Cemetery at Depot Division in Regina and other historical sites in remote locations. However, Beechwood remains unique as the only RCMP cemetery open to the families of its members, a direct result of advocacy by RCMP Veterans and their loved ones.

Initially, the design of the cemetery followed military and depot traditions, meaning only serving members and their designated next of kin would be interred together. At Depot, the designated individual was memorialized on an in-ground plaque at the base of the monument. However, the wives of RCMP members strongly opposed this approach, arguing that they had served alongside their spouses, often enduring the same hardships and sacrifices. Beechwood recognized their vital role and proposed a different solution: the use of taller headstones capable of bearing two names, allowing family members to be buried together. This innovation not only honoured the service of RCMP members but also acknowledged the integral role of their families, reinforcing the core value that family is central to the RCMP.

A Symbolic and Sacred Space

As the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood grew, additional features were introduced to enhance its commemorative significance. The most striking is the central monument with flagstaff, which serves as the cemetery's focal point. This monument was deliberately designed to mirror the Chapel at Depot Division in Regina, symbolizing the strength and unity of the Force. Carved into black stone, the RCMP badge is flanked by the figures of two uniformed members—a bugler and a sentry standing vigil. The back of the monument proudly displays the Horse and Rider, the most iconic symbol of the RCMP.

At the heart of the cemetery, the cenotaph stands as a solemn tribute to those who have died in the line of duty. A uniformed RCMP member salutes the names inscribed on the honour roll, offering a poignant reminder of service and sacrifice. Surrounding the cenotaph, stepping stones engraved with the ensigns of each division, the Commissioner’s crest, and the RCMP Veterans' Association emblem mark the enduring presence of the RCMP across Canada.

Bison and the RCMP Heritage

Two Bison head columns mark the northwest entrance of the RNMC. The bison holds deep historical significance for the RCMP, having provided essential sustenance and clothing to the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) during their March West. This powerful symbol remains enshrined in the RCMP badge today. Surrounding each bison head is a laurel of thirteen maple leaves, representing Canada’s ten provinces and three territories, symbolizing the nationwide service of the RCMP.

Lighting the RCMP Veterans’ Memorial Flame

On September 23, 2017, in honour of Canada’s 150th anniversary, a special ceremony was held to light the RCMP Veterans’ Memorial Flame at Beechwood. The three-part event began on Parliament Hill, where a torch was ignited from the Centennial Flame by RCMP Veteran and Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms Pat McDonnell. A relay march followed, with Veterans, serving members, and families passing the torch from one generation to the next. This symbolic act reinforced the intergenerational bond within the RCMP community.

The torch was then carried through the streets of Ottawa via the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, stopping at key RCMP landmarks, including the Canadian Police College and the RCMP Musical Ride Centre. Upon reaching Beechwood, the torch was welcomed by a procession led by Mounted Riders and the RCMP Combined Pipes and Drums. Retired Senior Citizenship Judge George Springate presided over a citizenship reaffirmation ceremony, linking RCMP service to Canadian identity and civic duty.

The flame itself is flanked by two black granite columns. One holds a marble globe, symbolizing the RCMP’s service to Canada and the world. The second supports a bronze statue of Lady Justice, commissioned by RCMP Veteran Louise Morel and her Troop 4 (1982) troopmates, symbolizing the RCMP’s role in upholding democracy and justice in Canada.

The RCMP Extended Biography Program

The RCMP Extended Biography Program at Beechwood highlights the contributions of the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP), the Royal North-West Mounted Police (RNWMP), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) members. This initiative shares the personal histories and service records of those who served, preserving their legacy for future generations. By detailing individual biographies, the program educates visitors about the dedication and sacrifices of RCMP members throughout Canadian history.

The RCMP Commemorative Pathway Plaque Program

The RCMP Commemorative Pathway Plaque Program was introduced to honour and celebrate the vast history and contributions of the RCMP and its Veterans. Each year, new plaques are unveiled, telling the story of the RCMP’s evolution and the significant moments in its history. The plaques vary in themes, highlighting moments such as the North-West Mounted Police (NWMP) and the South African War, the RCMP’s origins as military police, the role of public servants in the Force, and many more. This pathway provides visitors with an immersive historical experience, connecting them with the legacy of the RCMP.

The RCMP Veterans’ Legacy Pathway

As part of our ongoing efforts, the RCMP Veterans’ Legacy Pathway will be a distinguished feature of the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood.

This wall will:

  • Profile the contributions of the RCMP to the development of Canada
  • Highlight the history of the RCMP from its inception in 1873
  • Recognize all those who have served throughout the years

The concept for the RCMP Veterans’ Legacy Pathway was inspired by many of the international and national police memorials that share history and symbolism in commemorating local forces and their fallen.

Particular attention was paid to memorials that incorporate contemporary aspects, allowing visitors to reflect on their experiences. Following this example, the pathway will feature an informative walking tour with resting stops, including benches and plaques, creating a historical timeline marking important events in RCMP history.

The RCMP Veterans’ Legacy Pathway will expand on these concepts, emphasizing the RCMP’s role in Canadian identity and culture, ensuring that its legacy continues to be honoured and remembered for generations to come.

The RCMP National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood continues to be a vibrant and evolving tribute to Canada’s national police force. Through the Commemorative Pathway Plaque Program, ongoing commemorations, and annual traditions, it remains a sacred site of remembrance, celebrating the dedication and service of RCMP members, past and present.

Make a donation

The RCMP National Memorial Cemetery Committee needs your support for current and future projects and programs. Make sure to choose the RCMP Projects in the dropdown menu.

Beechwood Cemetery Foundation issues tax-deductible receipts for donations of $20 or more. The charitable registration number is 88811 2018 RR0001.

RCMP National Memorial Cemetery Cenotaph