While the new Commanding Officer of the Manitoba RCMP took the office in May 2024, a ceremony steeped in history and RCMP tradition took place on October 17, 2024, at Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site, to mark the symbolic passing of command from one Commanding Officer to the successor.
"The RCMP is a modern police agency that uses state-of-the-art technology and investigative methods, and we are also deeply woven into Canadian history," said Sergeant Major Bettina Schaible, the officer responsible for keeping and maintaining RCMP history and tradition in Manitoba. "The Change of Command ceremony is important as it allows the officers under the command as well as the community at large to bid farewell to their outgoing Commanding Officer and welcome in their new Commanding Officer. Ceremony is important to the RCMP. When we put on the iconic Red Serge, it means something special to each and every one of us. On this day, we wear it to honour the importance of a change in command and new leadership."
Assistant Commissioner Scott McMurchy accepted the RCMP D Division Ensign from RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme after it was relinquished by outgoing Commanding Officer, Deputy Commissioner Rob Hill. Parchments were signed and bagpipe banners were exchanged to mark the beginning of a new command and a new path forward.
"Under my leadership, I want to develop concrete plans and strategies that will show how we get to the goal of wraparound care," said Assistant Commissioner McMurchy. "Police have a role to play in ensuring that frontline agencies are involved in providing all the supports people need, as it has been shown that this type of involvement can help reduce crime rates. Collaboration, at all levels, between all agencies and all leadership, is what is at the core of helping Manitobans and keeping them safe."
The Commanding Officer of the Manitoba RCMP recognized his wife and his daughter as his rock-solid supports through many moves and long shifts when he was away from home. Assistant Commissioner McMurchy also recognized that his parents supported his goal of becoming a Mountie.
"When I was young, my family and I saw the Mounties in my community of The Pas – they were always front and centre. It inspired in me a desire to serve."
In taking command, Assistant Commissioner McMurchy recognized the important of Reconciliation.
"I am committed to the tenet of 'nothing about us without us,' and under my command, the RCMP will continue to listen and collaborate with Métis, Inuit, and First Nation people across Manitoba."
The ceremony included a troop of RCMP officers marching in Red Serge as well as the RCMP pipe and drum band.