Two ceremonies in Ottawa and Mayerthorpe paid tribute to brave members of Mayerthorpe RCMP Friday, in an effort to honour the heavy price that was paid two years ago.
In Ottawa, Gov.-Gen. Michaelle Jean led an emotional tribute Friday to celebrate a RCMP constable who shot the man who killed four Mounties near Mayerthorpe in 2005.
Const. Stephen William Vigor was among 41 Canadians honoured with a Medal of Bravery at Rideau Hall. The medal is Canada's third-highest recognition for bravery.
Shiela-Marie Cook, secretary to the Governor General, said Vigor was "instrumental" in stopping James Roszko from killing more officers.
"While another officer took cover in his car to call for assistance, Const. Vigor returned fire, hitting the suspect and forcing his retreat back into the Quonset," she said. "He maintained a watch until the arrival of backup. Tragically, the four other RCMP officers had been ambushed and killed by the suspect, who later took his own life."
Before shooting himself, Roszko killed four RCMP officers including Peter Schiemann, Brock Myrol, Leo Johnston and Anthony Gordon.
Vigor was the only Albertan to receive the Medal of Bravery Friday.
Across the country, supporters in Mayerthorpe, Alta., also honoured the RCMP with a hockey game. The match was a tribute to the four fallen officers and was designed to raise money for a permanent memorial.
The puck dropped at 7 p.m. after an emotional candlelit ceremony. Edmonton Oilers head coach Craig MacTavish made a special guest appearance at the game, joining some players behind the RCMP bench.
Sgt. Jim Martin said he decided to organize the game after he wanted to pay tribute to his four former co-workers.
"The people of Mayerthorpe and Whitecourt really came to our aid and really supported us during that time," Martin said. "This game is also paying thanks back to them and for supporting us during that time."
This is the fourth game to honour the Fallen Four.
With files from Bill Fortier
