The RCMP Veterans’ Association, Nova Scotia Division continues its important work through the Graves Inspection Program, which ensures that the gravesites of RCMP members and their spouses are respectfully maintained and properly recognized throughout the province.
During 2025, inspections were conducted at most known gravesites of RCMP members and their spouses in Nova Scotia. The annual inspection program now includes 696 known gravesites, representing an increase of 11 sites from the previous year. This increase reflects recent deaths as well as the identification of previously unknown gravesites through ongoing research conducted under the Graves Recovery Project.
As part of each inspection, gravesites are marked with the Divisional Ensign to indicate that the site has been visited by the RCMP Veterans’ Association. Approximately 35 veteran members participated in inspections across the province, many with assistance from their spouse or partner. Their commitment and volunteer efforts remain vital to the success of this program.
In 2024, ten gravesites were identified as requiring maintenance, including cleaning, re-lettering, replacement bases, or stone realignment. This work was completed in 2025 with the assistance of Heritage Memorials, cemetery staff, and inspecting members.
The 2025 inspections identified additional gravesites requiring maintenance or repair. This work is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2026. Several other sites are currently under review to determine whether the required work can be completed by local cemetery staff or by inspecting members. In accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding between H Division and the RCMP Veterans’ Association, all maintenance and repair costs are funded by the Association.
When gravesites lacking reference to RCMP service are identified, follow-up research is conducted to determine eligibility for a regimental marker. This process includes contacting next-of-kin to obtain service details such as regimental number and years of service. Eligible families are advised of available recognition options and ongoing care benefits and may then decide whether to proceed with RCMP service recognition. In 2025, and with next-of-kin consent, four additional gravesites were marked with an RCMP crest affixed to the headstone.
The RCMP Graves database, established privately by retired Superintendent Joe Healy, currently records 1,020 Force members interred in Nova Scotia. Veteran members continue to play an active role in researching and identifying burial sites across the province.
This work is led by Vince Wood and Stephanie Sachesse, with support from other veterans, and is carried out at minimal cost to the Association. Approximately 14 additional sites are currently at various stages of review to determine eligibility, and family wishes regarding service recognition. Dedicated funding has been allocated to this initiative and is maintained separately from general revenues. Once sites are appropriately marked, they are added to the database and included in the annual inspection program.
A spreadsheet containing current information on all known gravesites in the province is maintained and updated regularly. Photographs and GPS coordinates are also kept on file, and inspecting members are encouraged to submit photographs with their inspection reports.
Recent discussions with the Commanding Officer Dennis Daley, Steve Graham and the Force Senior Executive Committee regarding the inclusion of spousal names on RCMP headstones are appreciated. This long-standing issue has remained unresolved for several years, and it is hoped that progress will be achieved in the near future.
The Memorandum of Understanding governing the Graves Inspection Program was renewed in March 2024 and covers the period from 2024/2025 through 2026/2027. Continued support from H Division for the Graves Inspection Program is sincerely appreciated.
