The Memorial Service
A National Tribute to Police and Peace Officers Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice.
The Sacrifice That Inspired a National Memorial
On July 11, 1977, Constable David C. Kirkwood of the Ottawa Police Service was assisting officers executing an arrest warrant when the situation escalated into a three-hour gun battle.
Positioned at the rear of the residence, Constable Kirkwood was fatally shot from an upstairs window. He died instantly. Before the incident concluded, more than 50 officers had responded and three additional officers were injured.
His death became the catalyst for a movement that would ensure the sacrifices of fallen officers would never be forgotten.
The First Memorial Service
September 24, 1978
The inaugural Memorial Service was held on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
Parliament was intentionally chosen because it represents the place where laws are created—laws that directly affect police officer safety and the security of all Canadians.
Over time, traditions were established while the ceremony continued to evolve.
British Columbia Law Enforcement Memorial
The British Columbia Law Enforcement Memorial is held in conjunction with the National Police & Peace Officers’ Memorial in Ottawa. For many years, the ceremony alternated between The Bastion on the grounds of the British Columbia Legislature in Victoria and locations throughout the Lower Mainland.
Following consultation with law enforcement agencies and the families of fallen officers, it was decided in 2019 that the Memorial Service would be held permanently in Victoria, providing a lasting and unified place of remembrance.
The Memorial Today
Expanded Recognition
Originally honouring officers murdered in the line of duty, the Memorial now recognizes all officers who die while serving their communities.
A Living Memorial
Names from previous decades continue to be added to the Memorial Stone, ensuring every sacrifice is remembered.
All Peace Officers
Since 1995, the Memorial has honoured not only police officers, but all peace officers, bringing law enforcement community together in one national ceremony.
Police and Peace Officers’ National Memorial Day
On September 24, 1998, the Government of Canada officially proclaimed the last Sunday of September of every year as Police and Peace Officers’ National Memorial Day.
The Solicitor General of Canada stated that “a formal, national Memorial Day gives Canadians an opportunity each year to formally express appreciation for the dedication of Police and Peace Officers, who make the ultimate, tragic sacrifice to keep communities safe.”
Law Enforcement Officers from all over Canada gather in Ottawa and march to the Police and Peace Officers’ Memorial Pavilion on Parliament Hill, where all fallen Officers are remembered and their sacrifices honoured.
About the Memorial
The British Columbia Law Enforcement Memorial honours officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the people of British Columbia. Explore its history, significance, and ongoing stewardship below.
The Bastion Memorial
The Bastion is a Provincial Monument dedicated to law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty while serving the citizens of British Columbia. The monument was officially unveiled on September 26, 2004 by Premier Gordon Campbell, Solicitor General Rich Coleman, and Dr. Chris and Therese Ng, parents of fallen RCMP Constable Jimmy Ng, representing the families of Canada’s fallen heroes.
Permanent Home in Victoria
Since 2019, the British Columbia Law Enforcement Memorial Service has been held permanently in Victoria. This decision followed extensive consultation with law enforcement agencies and the families of fallen officers, ensuring a consistent and meaningful location for the annual ceremony.
Memorial Administration
The Memorial is administered by a dedicated steering committee comprising representatives from:
- British Columbia Association of Chiefs of Police (BCACP)
- British Columbia Police Association (BCPA)
- British Columbia Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation
Together, these organizations oversee the planning, preservation, and continued legacy of the Memorial.