About the RCMP Veterans’ Association
Who We Are
The RCMP Veterans’ Association has proudly served retired members of the Force since 1886, fostering a lifelong sense of camaraderie, service, and support.
In Vancouver, Force veterans began gathering in 1912, and that tradition of friendship and connection continues to this day. The Association was formally incorporated as the Royal Northwest Mounted Police Veterans’ Association on January 14, 1924, and officially adopted its current name, the RCMP Veterans’ Association, in 1954.
Today, the Vancouver Division is one of 31 divisions across Canada and operates as part of a national, not-for-profit organization headquartered in Ottawa. With approximately 430 members throughout British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, the division remains committed to preserving the values and traditions that have united generations of RCMP members.
Our Mission
The RCMP Veterans’ Association – Vancouver Division exists to preserve and strengthen the bonds of friendship among retired members while continuing a proud legacy of service. We are dedicated to:
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- Promoting the best interests of Canada.
- Supporting the Government of Canada when called upon.
- Working cooperatively with law enforcement agencies, particularly the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, on matters of mutual interest.
- Enhancing the physical, social, and economic well-being of members and their families.
- Supporting charitable and community organizations that make a positive difference in the lives of others.
A Legacy of Service
Although years may pass following retirement, the commitment and pride of Force veterans remain unchanged. Members of the Vancouver Division continue to honor the contributions and sacrifices made in service to Canada while supporting one another and giving back to their communities.
Through friendship, fellowship, and service, we are proud to preserve the legacy of those who have worn the Red Serge and to ensure that the spirit of the RCMP lives on for future generations.
Vancouver Division
The RCMP Veterans’ Association has proudly served retired members of the Force since 1886. In Vancouver, Force veterans began meeting in 1912, and that tradition of fellowship and service continues today.
Originally incorporated as the Royal Northwest Mounted Police Veterans’ Association on January 14, 1924, the organization adopted its current name, the RCMP Veterans’ Association, in 1954.
The Vancouver Division is one of 31 divisions within the national RCMP Veterans’ Association, a not-for-profit organization headquartered in Ottawa. Today, the division is home to approximately 430 members located throughout British Columbia’s Lower Mainland.
Our Purpose
The Association is dedicated to preserving and strengthening the bonds of friendship among retired members of the Force by:
- Promoting and advancing the best interests of Canada.
- Serving the Government of Canada when called upon.
- Cooperating with and assisting police agencies, particularly the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, on matters of mutual interest.
- Supporting the physical, social, and economic well-being of members and their immediate families.
- Providing assistance to charitable and community organizations that contribute to the public good.
Throughout the years, RCMP veterans have remained proud of their contributions to maintaining peace and serving Canadians. The Vancouver Division continues to uphold this legacy through friendship, service, and support for both its members and the communities they serve.
Why Join?
The Vancouver Division of the RCMP Veterans’ Association provides support, information, and opportunities for retired RCMP members throughout British Columbia’s Lower Mainland.
Support for Veterans and Families
Members and volunteers help veterans and their families with a variety of matters, including:
- Veterans Independence Program (VIP) benefits
- Benefit Trust Fund applications
- RCMP pension inquiries
- Disability pension applications
- Funeral and memorial arrangements
- Survivor benefits and reporting requirements
- Estate planning information, including wills and powers of attorney
- Coordination of Honour Guards, clergy, pipers, and cremation arrangements
The Association also maintains representation and advocacy on issues affecting RCMP veterans and their families.
Access to Information
Members receive timely information through a variety of resources, including:
- National RCMP Veterans’ Association support services
- The RCMP Veterans’ National Association website
- The Vancouver Division website
- RCMP Veterans Quick Update email messages
Additional resources available to veterans include:
- The Quarterly, published four times annually by the National RCMP Veterans’ Association
- VetsNet, providing information relevant to RCMP veterans across Canada
- The National RCMP Gravesite Database, containing records for more than 17,000 former members
Social Activities
The Vancouver Division offers opportunities for members to stay connected through:
- Remembrance ceremonies and special dedications
- Annual Christmas Levee
- Golf tournaments
- Koffee Klatches held throughout British Columbia
- Spring and fall social gatherings
- The National Annual General Meeting, hosted in a different city each year
Community Support
The Vancouver Division supports organizations and initiatives that strengthen communities and assist those in need. These include:
- Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities
- BC & Alberta Guide Dogs
- Bruce Denniston Bone Marrow Society
- RCMP “E” Division Pipes and Drums
- Special Olympics BC
- Honour House Society
Through financial contributions and volunteer efforts, members continue a tradition of service beyond their years with the Force.
Become a Member
Joining the RCMP Veterans’ Association – Vancouver Division provides access to valuable resources, meaningful connections, and opportunities to continue serving the veteran community.
Executive (2026)
- Ray Power – President and Membership
- Murray Macham – VP and Advocacy
- John Sherstone – Advocacy & Past President
- Karen Frost – Secretary
- Budd Cramm – Treasurer
- Murray Clark – Webmaster
- Pierre McConnell – Advocacy
- Ric Hall – Historian
- Dorothy Martinson – Social
- David Reece – Newsletter
- Dave Attfield – Honour Guard
- Merv Bayda – Director
- Donna Morse – Director
- Laurier Cadieux – Mess Liaison
- Nancy Joyce – Mess Liaison
Social Events
The Vancouver Division hosts social events every other month, except July and August, at the Cloverdale Legion. These gatherings provide an opportunity for veterans, spouses, families, and friends to reconnect, enjoy good company, and strengthen the friendships built through RCMP service.
Throughout the year, members can also look forward to special events, including the Annual Christmas Levee held each December.
Many events include a meal, entertainment, and time to socialize with fellow members and guests.
Registration
Event details, including dates, times, ticket prices, and registration information, are announced through:
- The Vancouver Division website
- Division General Meetings
- Scarlet and Gold newsletter
- RCMP Veterans’ Quick Update email messages
Advance registration is required for most events. Please refer to the event announcement for registration instructions and payment details.
Event Information
Details about upcoming social events are shared through:
- Division General Meetings
- The Vancouver Division website
- Scarlet and Gold, the Vancouver Division newsletter
- RCMP Veterans’ Quick Update email messages
Tickets for social events must be purchased in advance. Information regarding ticket prices and purchasing details is provided when each event is announced.
Notifications of meetings will be sent by e-mail and will be posted on our website.
Frequency of Meetings
Executive Meetings
Executive meetings are held at 10:00 AM on the third Wednesday of each month, with the exception of July and August. Meetings take place at the Cloverdale Legion.
General Meetings
General meetings are open to all members and provide an opportunity to receive updates, discuss Association matters, and connect with fellow veterans.
General Meetings will be announced on this website and communicated to all members via email.
Members are encouraged to attend and stay engaged with the activities and initiatives of the Vancouver Division.
Veterans’ Kit
Orders of Dress
The RCMP Veterans’ Association has established a national policy on orders of dress to promote consistency while allowing divisions to adapt requirements to local circumstances.
The Vancouver Division Executive, or its designate, may determine the appropriate order of dress for specific events. Depending on the occasion, variations may be permitted, such as wearing parade dress without headdress or using parade dress in place of ceremonial dress.
Orders of dress are divided into three categories:
- Duty and Parade
- Ceremonial
- Formal
For complete guidelines, please refer to Appendix “D” – Orders of Dress in the RCMP Veterans’ Association National Manual.
Red Blazer
The RCMP Veterans’ Association encourages members across Canada to purchase and wear the official red blazer. In the Vancouver Division, a less formal dress code is generally observed for social events, luncheons, and dinners.
Members are encouraged to wear business casual attire for most functions. For the Annual Levee, members and guests are encouraged to wear a blazer, sports jacket, or similar attire.
The red blazer is particularly encouraged for members who are:
- Serving on the Division Executive Committee
- Attending the RCMP Veterans’ Association Annual General Meeting
- Members of the Ceremonial Troop
- Members of the Honour Guard
Red blazers may be purchased through Derks Uniforms in Edmonton, Alberta.
The Vancouver Division can provide:
- Veterans Crest – $20.00 (buyer attaches)
- Buttons – $10.00
- Tie – $32.00 (when ordered at the same time)
For additional information, please refer to Appendix “D” – Orders of Dress in the RCMP Veterans’ Association National Manual.
Disposal of Old Uniforms
Many retired RCMP members retain their uniforms with the understanding that they will eventually be disposed of in a manner that reflects the dignity and reputation of the Force.
As circumstances change, veterans and their families may need assistance with the proper disposal of uniforms and kits. To support this process, Surrey Detachment, in cooperation with the Vancouver Division, provides assistance with the respectful disposal of retired uniforms.
To arrange for the disposal of uniforms or kit, please contact:
Ric Hall
Email: rshall69@shaw.ca
Appropriate arrangements will be made to ensure these items are handled responsibly and respectfully.
Health and Benefits
The Vancouver Division helps members and families find information on health benefits and support. This section offers guidance on healthcare, pensions, disability, and survivor benefits for RCMP veterans.
These resources aim to help the veteran community navigate available services. Please review the provided guides for more details.
