The Fallen Four Memorial: A place to remember and pay respects

By Zachary Edwards

Over 10 years ago, on March 3, 2005, four RCMP officers were killed while on duty, bravely facing down a gunman who later turned his own assault rifle on himself. What followed was a nation in mourning. While those events will always be part of Mayerthorpe and, indeed, Canada’s, history, the opportunity to remember can also be a chance to heal.

The Fallen Four Memorial in Mayerthorpe, AB is a public place where people can learn more about those brave officers, their lives, and their sacrifice. Located in the Fallen Four Memorial Park, the memorial itself features statues of constables Anthony Gordon, Leo Johnston, Brock Myrol, and Peter Schiemann around a central obelisk. Ceremonies are held every year to honour the sacrifices made by these brave officers and the many law enforcement professionals who give their lives to keep Canada safe.

The memorial is open to the public seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Its keepers encourage people to come out to pay their respects, grieve, and learn more about the RCMP and that fateful day in 2005. Informational tours are available as well. It is never too late to learn more about the events that have shaped our nation including tragedies like this.

To learn more about the park and memorial, visit the website www.fallenfour.ca. Arrangements for special visits and tours can be made by calling Margaret Thibault at 780-786-2751 or 780-706-4420 or Colette McKillop at 780-786-2033. If you have any additional questions, you can email the park’s visitor centre at info@fallenfour.ca.