Brandon, Manitoba to Regina, Saskatchewan The Royal Canadian Mounted Police Heritage Center

We drove straight through from Brandon to Regina hoping to arrive in time for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Sergeant's Major Parade at the RCMP "Depot" Division which provides training for all members of the RCMP.  We arrived in plenty of time since the parade was cancelled due to a Civil Holiday.  The first Monday of August is a national holiday in Canada but without any significant event being commemorated.  We noticed almost every business other than fast food and fuel stops were closed for the holiday.  When we asked the locals what was being celebrated, no one could give us more information other than the Canadian government decided Canadians would get off the first Monday in August resulting in a three day weekend.  Later we learned, some provinces have designated a name for the holiday rather than just call it Civil Holiday.  For example, in British Columbia it is British Columbia Day (what else would they call it).  The RCMP Heritage Center was open.  So, we toured the facility and were impressed with the history and service provided by the RCMP.  We will come back tomorrow to view the Sergeant Major's Parade.

Royal Canadian Mounted Police Bombardier Patrol Vehicle

Since 1885, all RCMP have trained at "Depot" Division in Regina.  Cadets undergo 26 weeks of intensive training here prior to being awarded their badges and assuming posts across Canada.  The RCMP Heritage Center tells the story of the RCMP and its role in maintaining law and order, as well as, providing other security services to the Canadian people.  A significant amount of space was dedicated to telling the story of the relationship between the First Nation peoples and the RCMP.  Several of the exhibits were "hands on" fun.  Carla got to get behind the wheel of a patrol car simulator and tried to negotiate the traffic obstacle course.  She didn't do well at all.  Dwayne was able to "ride horseback" as a member of the RCMP Musical Ride while mounted on a regulation saddle and wearing virtual reality goggles.  Neither Dwayne nor Carla fit into any of the serge jackets made available for those wishing to have their picture taken in a Mountie uniform.  It was a fun time and great learning experience.  We spent several hours at the Heritage Center.

Snowmobiles Have Replaced Dog Sleds