Fallen Four Memorial – 15th anniversary

By Corrine Gadke

March 3 marks the 15th anniversary of the tragedy that impacted the lives of so many in Mayerthorpe and across Canada. Four RCMP officers who died in the line of duty. Constables Lionide (Leo) Johnston, Anthony Gordon, Peter Schiemann, and Brock Myrol were honoured Tuesday night along with RCMP members, first responders, and all those who have been lost too soon.

At 6:30 p.m., a graceful candlelight memorial service was hosted for the constables by The Mayerthorpe Fallen Four Memorial Society at 4602 – 52 Street.

The service started with each person carrying a lit candle in honour of the 4 RCMP members as well as all those who were lost too soon, to quietly surround the four statues that stand in different directions on the compass point at the Fallen Four Memorial Park in Mayerthorpe.

Margaret Thibault began the service explaining that candles represent Quiet faith, Courage, Memory, Hope for the Future, the Light of Love. Shortly after that, candles were raised to honour Peter, Leo, Anthony, and Brock. Her words ended with a heartfelt quote, “Live well and be gentle with each other.”

Words of compassion and tenderness were also heard by Board member and Pastor Arnold Lotholtz with a beautiful prayer. Words from Fire Chief Randy Schroeder and Yellowhead MP Gerald Soroka were followed by words of empathy from Mayor Kate Patrick of Mayerthorpe.

Members and first responders attended from across Alberta and as far as BC to join the Fallen Four Memorial. Attendance reached approximately 100 people. As candles were slowly extinguished, quietness overcame everyone. After the memorial a dinner was held at the Mayerthorpe Legion.

Spokesperson Margaret Thibault concluded that the Fallen Four Society would be hosting a new fundraiser called The Amazing Chase. Coming up May 30, it’s a first-time fundraiser for the Fallen Four. “Not all info is out yet. Still, it will be teams of four with a maximum of eight teams, and there will be nine challenges focusing on strength, stamina, and mental abilities. Anyone can pre-register. What better way to remember and honour all we have lost in a fun, memorable way,” she said.