Pioneers and Prominent People of Saskatchewan

 

 

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seas in command of a contingent in connection with Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. He afterwards discharged a similar duty on the occasion of King George's coronation. In 1909 His Majesty conferred upon him the Order of C.M.G.

 

Shortly after his taking office as Commissioner, His Majesty King Edward VII bestowed upon the force the title Royal North-west Mounted Police, in recognition of their services throughout the empire, more particularly in South Africa.

On the outbreak of the South African War, in 1899, numerous ex-members of the force were found in the first Canadian contingent sent to the scene of action. On the organization of the second corps of Canadian Mounted Rifles, leave of absence was granted to many officers and men who joined this contingent. Engaged under Colonel Steele, of the Strathcona Horse, were thirty or more members and ex-members of the northwest Mounted Police. For conspicuous bravery in South Africa, Sergeant A. H. Richardson was awarded the Victoria Cross. Colonel Steele was presented with the Victorian Order, and the C.B.; Majors Belcher and Jarvis, the C.M.G.; Captains Sanders, Mackie and Cartwright and Lieutenants Christie and Leckie, the D.S.O. Many non-commissioned officers and men were granted the medal for distinguished conduct on the field.

 

 

On the attainment of Provincial standing, and pending the organization of a Provincial Police Force, the Saskatchewan Government, in 1905, negotiated with the Federal authorities for the services of, the Mounted Police at a cost of $75,000 per annum. This arrangement was terminated in 1916, the Province in the meantime having built up a Provincial force.

 

When, in 1914, the whole world was plunged into the great European war, a desire was manifested among all ranks in the Royal North-west Mounted Police to find a place in the fighting line. Prompt release was given to the British Reservists, fifty-five in number,

 

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Pioneers and Prominent People of Saskatchewan