This release was issued under a previous government.
The occasion was marked today with a ceremony at Government House where His Honour, Colonel (Retired) the Honourable Donald S. Ethell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, presented chiefs of police from across Alberta with parchments. The parchments identify their new status as commissioned officers, an honour indicating their rank is acknowledged by the state.
Historically, military and RCMP officers have been commissioned once they achieve a senior rank. Now Alberta is extending this honour to municipal and First Nations police. Deputy Commissioner Marianne Ryan, Commanding Officer of Alberta RCMP and President of the Alberta Association of Chiefs of Police, and Jonathan Denis, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General, were also present to congratulate the chiefs.
“Police officers play an invaluable role in keeping our families and communities safe. As senior officers they are very deserving of our gratitude for their key role and exemplary service in leading and coordinating the work of police across the province in service to Albertans.”
In total, 106 officers will receive the honour this year, with the remaining officers to receive their parchments in the coming weeks. As well, from this year on, officers who achieve a senior rank will be commissioned.
The chiefs of police recognized today:
- Rick Hanson, Calgary chief of police
- Rod Knecht, Edmonton chief of police
- Lee Boyd, Blood Tribe chief of police
- Darrell Kambeitz, Camrose chief of police
- Steve Murray, Lacombe chief of police
- Dale Cox, Lakeshore chief of police
- Thomas McKenzie, Lethbridge chief of police;
- Thomas McGrogan, Medicine Hat chief of police
- Alf Rudd, Taber chief of police
- Keith Blake, Tsuu T’ina chief of police