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Two RCMP Heroes

Remarks by David Kilgour, Member of Parliament (Edmonton Southeast) and Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific).

“K” Division Headquarters, Edmonton, AB

May 23, 2003


Assistant Commissioner Sweeney, members of the Massey and Graburn families, ladies and gentlemen.

We look to the day that there would no longer be a need for these ceremonies. It is too often forgotten that a police officer puts his or her life on the line every time they go on duty.

To a police officer, there is no challenge too great, no danger too frightening. It is a calling to which only the brave at heart and strong in spirit are drawn.

It is a destiny which Supt. Brian Massey and Marmaduke Graburn were born to fulfill. Although their time on Earth was cut short, they accomplished so much

The RCMP has always exhibited a tradition of strong values – commitment and service to community.

Dennis Massey was the personification of these values. Through his lengthy accomplishments and contributions not only in Canada but internationally all that he did was in the interest of community. He was also committed to being a ‘police officer’ remaining on the street working with people. His commitment to duty extended beyond the job to his passionate work with countless volunteer organizations and charities.

It was a tragic accident that took Dennis from all of us and this province is lesser for it. Dennis was the quintessential police officer – an individual with unwavering devotion to the betterment of his community and his legacy will live on the example that he set for others.

Like many young people, Marmaduke Graburn make the decision to work in service of his country – first as a sailor, then as a officer in the Northwest Mounted Police. After enlisting in Ottawa at 19, he was assigned to the horse camp at Cypress Hills. Just a few months into his service, Marmaduke was found murdered in a coulee following a verbal confrontation with another person.

As the first member of the Force to die a violent death, his murder serves as a tragic reminder of the violence that marked the beginnings of our province. Marmaduke is buried at Fort Walsh, now a national historic site, and his place of death in Cypress Hills Park is known as Graburn’s Gap.

From the better place from which these men now watch over us, they no doubt take great comfort in knowing that their family and friends are bound together by your love and your grief, and by an extended RCMP community that never forgets its own.

We can never repay them for their sacrifice, but we can honour their memory through this Wall, and carry on their spirit through our actions.

This Wall of Honour represents the sweat, blood, energy, spirit, and hope of every hero whose names are inscribed on it. It is also the pride, love, tears, and pain of all those whose lives they touched.
 

 
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