On May 23, 2026, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police National Memorial Cemetery at Beechwood Cemetery welcomed veterans, serving members, families, dignitaries, and members of the public for a special commemorative ceremony celebrating the history, traditions, and enduring legacy of the Mounted Police.
The event marked two important milestones: the 25th year of partnership alongside Beechwood in caring for the sacred grounds of the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery, and the 20th anniversary of the formalized tri-partite agreement between the RCMP, the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation, and the RCMP Veterans’ Association (Ottawa Division).
Originally established in 2001 within Section 114 as a resting place for RCMP veterans and their families, the cemetery has evolved into a truly national space of remembrance, welcoming current and former RCMP members and their families from across Canada. Today, it stands not only as a place of burial, but as a living landscape of memory, education, and national recognition.
Unveiling 6 New Plaques
A major highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of six new commemorative pathway plaques dedicated to the iconic uniforms, traditions, and symbols of the Mounted Police. The new plaques explored the history and meaning behind:
- The Ranks of the RCMP
- The Bison, Badge, and Motto
- The Red Serge
- The Riders’ Lances
- The High Brown Boots and Jack Spurs
- The Stetson
Senior leaders and distinguished guests participated in the unveiling, each connected symbolically to the history and significance of the traditions being honoured. The ceremony reflected how the RCMP’s visual identity has become one of the most recognized symbols of Canada around the world.
The commemorative pathway program continues to expand at the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery, helping visitors better understand the history of the Force and the individuals who helped shape policing and public service in Canada. Since 2019, the pathway plaques have become an important interpretive feature throughout the cemetery grounds.
A Tribute to the Voice of the Mounties
The second portion of the ceremony paid tribute to retired Staff Sergeant Garth Hampson, affectionately known as the “Voice of the Mounties.”
retired Staff Sergeant Garth Hampson, “Voice of the Mounties.”
A veteran of the Force who joined the RCMP in 1955, Garth Hampson served both as a police officer and later as the lead vocalist for the RCMP Concert Band beginning in 1964. Over the course of his extraordinary career, he performed more than 10,000 times across Canada and internationally, becoming one of the most recognizable musical ambassadors associated with the RCMP.
Beyond performance, Garth Hampson dedicated decades to community service, singing at citizenship ceremonies, Rideau Hall investitures, charitable events, and public gatherings that brought Canadians together through music. His contributions demonstrated how culture, public engagement, and service can strengthen the relationship between national institutions and the communities they serve.
During the ceremony, family members, RCMP representatives, colleagues, and friends joined together for the unveiling of a commemorative plaque recognizing his remarkable legacy and lifetime of service.
The event concluded with an invitation for visitors to continue exploring the historical plaques located throughout the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery and to participate in future ceremonies and commemorative programs held at Beechwood.
As the National Cemetery of Canada, Beechwood continues to work alongside national partners, veterans’ organizations, and communities to ensure that the stories, traditions, and sacrifices of Canadians are preserved for future generations.
