The third anniversary of one of Alberta's darkest tragedies falls on Monday, but hundreds gathered on Friday to celebrate the lives of four Mounties at the annual Fallen Four Memorial Hockey Game.
Dozen's of Mounties laced up to take on the Mayerthorpe Wranglers, for a hockey game that began with the unveiling of a painting dedicated to the fallen four.
On March 3, 2005 constables Leo Johnston, Peter Schiemann, Brock Myrol and Anthony Gordon were gunned down north of Mayerthorpe by James Roszko.
Three years have passed, but the town still feels the tragic loss.
"I think it's just paying tribute to them, saying that we don't forge the job you did here," said Sgt. Jim Martin with Mayerthorpe RCMP.
Martin worked alongside the fallen four in the Mayerthorpe detachment before they were killed.
"I think if it was a reverse roll they'd be all here too, doing exactly the same thing for other members."
The memorial hockey game has grown into an important tradition in the small town of Mayerthorpe, helping many residents get past difficult memories.
"It helps me to heal, something to look forward to rather than always focusing on the bad," said Shaylan Thibault who helped organize the game.
Mother of fallen Mountie, Leo Johnston, was also at the game, but spent much of her time socializing with friends.
"I haven't had tine to watch very much, I've been visiting with the players," Grace Johnston said jokingly.
The hockey game also brought out Edmonton Oilers' head coach Craig McTavish.
"Can't think of a better place to be tonight," said McTavish who spent much of the night behind the Mounties' bench.
Money raised from Friday's hockey game will go to a permanent memorial in honour of the fallen four and all other officers who have died in the line of duty.
With files from Bill Fortier
