The picture on our front page this week tells a tragic story.
Sunshine Coast RCMP members and the community came together on Thursday to remember four RCMP members who were killed in the line of duty in a violent shooting in Alberta last week.
The ceremony was a poignant and sombre reminder of how life is precious and how the world around you can change in a split second.
Constables Peter Schiemann, Lionide Johnston, Anthony Gordon and Brock Myrol were all young officers who gave their lives doing their jobs. On March 3, all four answered the call to protect their Alberta community. A deeply disturbed man made sure none of them went home.
Retired Sgt. George Hahn of the Los Angeles Police Department wrote a poignant poem, The Monument: "I never dreamed it would be me, My name for all eternity, Recorded here at this hallowed place, Alas, my name, no more my face.
"In the line of duty, I hear them say, My family now the price will pay, My folded flag stained with their tears, We only had those few short years.
"The badge no longer on my chest, I sleep now in eternal rest, My sword I pass to those behind, And pray they keep this thought in mind.
"I never dreamed it would be me, And with heavy heart and bended knee, I ask for here and all the past, Dear God, let my name be the last."
The poem read by Sunshine Coast RCMP Const. Jason Bouwman offered a chance to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice these young men made.
Prior to this tragedy, when was the last time we as a community showed our appreciation for what the police do for us on the Sunshine Coast?
Immediately after news of the shootings hit the airwaves, a memorial was set up in front of the detachment in Sechelt. Flowers were laid, and a small Canadian flag was placed beneath the flag pole and police sign.
According to S/Sgt. Brad Zalys, the outpouring of support from the community has been tremendous. A copy of his heartfelt words appears on page A9 of today's newspaper.
The Seaside Centre was packed to the rafters on Thursday. Citizens, politicians and members of the Sechelt Indian Band joined with officers in a touching and emotional tribute.
One never wants to hold such a ceremony, but it's heartwarming to see that so many people in this community care.
And please, God, may we never have another tragedy like this to write about.
