Royal Canadian Mounted Police Regimental Customs and Traditions
RCMP regiments have observed strict military-like traditions in various aspects. Members of the public can view some of these customs when these regiment accord final honours for fallen heroes. Attending such funerals can provide you with deep historical insight.
The regiment members usually go to such events in full regalia and colours. In some cases, they even accord the deceased with commendations and posthumous awards.
Such funerals usually include:
- processions
- A church/public service
- A graveside ceremony
- In the case of cremations, a chapel ceremony
The procession
The casket lays atop a gun carriage and drawn by a riderless horse to the chapel or graveside. 11 ceremonially dressed Mounties accompany this casket. One member carries the company emblem, 2 bare the headdress, 8 carry the casket, and they all have a commander.
The riderless horse symbolizes the falling of a comrade in the line of duty. The fallen hero’s boots are placed in reverse order to signify that death has reversed their comrade’s life.
Dressing
All the Mounties that attend dress in full ceremonial regalia. Such dressing dates back to the founding days of the corps. This includes any medals, ribbons and commendations awarded to the officers. High ranking officers wear a Stetson hat made of felt as they parade their rank and file.
Trooping of Colours
The company insignia flag or guidon may be presented in front of the funeral party if the commissioner allows it. Such a tradition dates back to 19th century Britain and many commonwealth nations still observe it. A pilling (beating) of regimental drums accompanies the presentation of the guidon. This tradition can be traced to ancient battlefield funerals.
Regimental Flags
The national flag and other company insignia fly at half-mast during the mourning period at the RCMP facility. The Canadian national flag typically drapes the casket. Although the deceased’s family can request for the company emblem or the Union jack instead.
Final Honors
Officers of every rank salute each time they walk past the casket. They also salute it when it’s paced on the gun carriage, sounding the Reveille and at the foot of the graveside.