For the first time ever in Canada, the RCMP’s Commander’s Unit Commendation has been awarded to a civilian volunteer unit and it happened in St. Albert. The “K” Division RCMP Regimental Pipes and Drums received the commendation in celebration of the twentieth anniversary of the approval of the RCMP Regimental Tartan and formal authorization of a kilted uniform for community bands of RCMP Pipes and Drums.
The award is the second highest award for recognition within the RCMP and is preceded only by the Commissioner’s Commendation.
“It’s a precedent in the history of the RCMP to present that award from a commanding officer to civilian volunteers and to the pipe bands,” said retired inspector Aaron Zelmer, who now works as the band officer and a former drum major.
The award for exemplary and innovative volunteer service was bestowed on the band at the St. Albert RCMP detachment by Deputy Commissioner Todd Shean. The “K” Division Regimental Pipes and Drums was commended for its service in promoting closer ties between the RCMP and for fostering community engagement since 1993. Its work, the award stated, has brought credit and honour to the RCMP with impact felt from local to international levels.
The commendation program is administered by the Honours and Recognition Branch of the RCMP.
“It is historically an internal award to units within the RCMP. It’s the second highest award within the RCMP and it’s intended exclusively for units, not people,” Zelmer said, adding that the Alberta unit is the oldest in the country.
Last year, the band raised $150,000 to send 38 of its members to Europe for the commemorative ceremonies surrounding the centennial of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, playing all over France and Belgium.
While the band performs throughout Alberta, it has a longstanding positive relationship with St. Albert. Zelmer said that the award was indeed an honour that was made even more special for being presented to the members at the St. Albert detachment.
Following the presentation of the plaque, Deputy Commissioner Shean presented each member of the band with a personal commemorative pin to be worn on the red serge and dancers’ regimental jacket.
