Rideau Hall, Friday, September 16, 2016

There’s something about being a police officer that captures the imagination of boys and girls growing up.

In fact, in a little over a month, I have no doubt that you’ll be seeing one or two police costumes come by on Halloween night!

What’s the draw?

There’s the uniform and tools of the trade.

There are the lights and noise of the sirens, of course.

And there’s the romance and simplicity of the old story of the good guys against the bad guys.

But though kids may want to play cops and robbers, police work is so much more than that.

And there’s nothing simple about it.  

A big part of your job is to play the role of community-builder and social worker. You strive to create a sense of trust, inclusion and security among those you serve.

This is no easy task. It requires you to be smart, tough, caring and courageous all at once. You work under pressure, you encounter dangerous situations as well as routine ones, and you’re constantly in the public eye.

But you do it willingly and you do it very well, because that’s the kind of professionals you are.

And that’s what makes you such worthy investees into the Order of Merit of the Police Forces.

Today, you’re being recognized for embodying the best of policing and community development.

This is something of which you, as well as your family members, colleagues and communities, should be very proud.

Policing is such an important vocation, one that puts you visibly on the front line.

This insignia is a chance for all of us to say thank you for the extraordinary job you do.  

Let us also express our gratitude to your loved ones, those who have supported you on the way and those who sacrifice so much in order that you may serve us all. Policing takes a toll on family, and so we want to say thank you to your families and loved ones as well.

Those who wear this insignia are an inspiration to their fellow officers and to all of us. Now, as part of this Order, you have an additional leadership role above and beyond the one you already had.

Never underestimate your ability to inspire and influence others through your actions.

Where great policing exists, great communities exist.

Thank you once again for all that you do every day.

And congratulations on receiving this well-deserved honour.