Gleichen hosts RCMP Regimental Ball
Manny Everett
Times Contributor
The Gleichen detachment of the RCMP held their formal affair as a fundraiser for local Victim Services on Saturday, May 25, dressed in their finest.
The RCMP Regimental Ball calls for full dress uniform, and so the conference room was filled to the brim with officers, male and female, young and old, wearing their finest, their red serge.
The ball is a formal affair in other respects too, as there are toasts to the Queen and speeches. It is a time to celebrate those individuals who have chosen to dedicate their lives to a profession with a proud history and heritage, and to a non-profit organization who has volunteers who dedicate themselves to serving those in our community who have experienced a personal tragedy.
Staff Sgt. James McLaren, in his opening address and welcoming of special guests commented on the thoughts behind the event. “With glorious past and greater future greeting us every time we enter town, I can’t help but think that this applies to my detachment as well as the community. It is no secret that we as members of the force have been riding a bumpy road. It is my feeling that when we act from a place of honour and if we truly care about the people we serve we can hold our heads high. This is a sentiment that I want my members to reflect on. We are servants to this community, this county, this country and we cannot forget that. That is our existence. I want to offer this evening as a symbol of that service to you.”
The Strathmore Regional Victim Services Society were the beneficiaries of the event and they are the ones who are there to help when there has been a crime or a tragedy that has left someone with their world shattered. They are the ones who comfort victims of sexual assault, and who accompany the RCMP when they must notify next-of-kin of an untimely or sudden death.
The Gleichen Community Ladies provided a fantastic meal for the event while the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, Strathmore 903 Squadron served the meal. Live entertainment was provided by Larry Vannatta and his band. It was an evening of fine dining, live auction, dancing and live music and most importantly getting to know the men and women behind the uniforms. McLaren’s commitment rang loud and clear in his comments to the community members, “Thank you all for coming out and supporting us. You are the silent majority who I know have our backs when we are conducting our duties. I ask that you share the rich history of this community and get to know the person behind the serge who is sitting with you. Tell some stories and ask for some stories. Share our common past, our glorious past so we can build a greater future together.”