As we go about our daily activities or lay our heads to sleep every night, we do so with the knowledge that in a small building on the east side of Chestermere, are men and women who are keeping watch – men and women who put their lives in danger to protect the residents they are charged to watch over. The sacrifices that they make to allow the rest of us to feel safe are numerous – and sometimes, the ultimate sacrifice is made.
Const. David Wynn, a father of three teenage sons, died in hospital surrounded by family days after being shot in the head by 34-year-old Shawn Maxwell Rehn while investigating a stolen vehicle at the Apex Casino in St. Albert on Jan. 17. Auxiliary Const. Derek Bond, 49, suffered gunshot wounds to the arm and torso in the shooting and he continues to recover. Rehn was later found dead in a rural St. Albert home after apparently taking his own life.
On January 26, 2015, thousands attended the funeral for the fallen Mountie in St. Albert – including members of the Chestermere RCMP detachment. As the day unfolded and many watched the moving service on TV, a plan was hatched on how Chestermere could welcome home and show gratitude and respect for the members of our local RCMP detachment.
Tanya Woolaver and Melody Guilloux, both have spouses that serve in the Chestermere RCMP unit, started posting on social media that they wanted to have a welcome home crowd at the detachment when group of officers arrived back from their long and emotional day of saying farewell to their fallen RCMP brother. The invitation went out to anyone who wanted to come out to make signs, bring flashlights and Canadian flags to welcome home the brave men and women that keep us safe.
As the crowd grew and the minutes ticked by, the anticipation and emotion was obvious. Members of the community, Chestermere Fire Service, and City Council were on hand to welcome home our local heroes. When the vehicles arrived, the smiles of surprise on the officer’s faces was priceless. They weren’t expecting a welcome home crowd as they arrived home in the dark of night, but when they saw the ‘Thank You’ signs and the Canadian flags and heard the applause and outpouring of gratitude, it was overwhelming. As the officers got out of the vehicles, it was handshakes and hugs all around.
Tanya Woolaver said, “As a spouse to an RCMP constable, it meant so much to see everyone come out and brave the cold for these men and women. After such a long emotional day, it was so great to see smiles on their faces.”
“Thank you everyone for the love and support you showed our RCMP members by standing in the cold, longer than expected, and all your kind words of gratitude. I know they appreciate the community they serve”, said Melody Guilloux.
It was summed up best by Staff Sergeant Glenn Henry as he stood speaking with the awaiting residents. “The best people show up when the worst happens”.
To the men and women of the RCMP, specifically the ones who serve in Chestermere, it isn’t enough, but, Thank You.
