Nobility, spirit and sacrifice, A salute to policing (7 pics)

The Branch 23, Royal Canadian Legion Pipes and Drums.

Officials say about 400 musicians took part in the military and police tattoo on Saturday at Memorial Gardens.

Approximately 50 to 60 of those musicians are 22 Wing concert band members.

The doors opened at 4pm with displays about policing and military operations. The musical attraction started at 7pm.

Admission was only $2 with all proceeds going to Special Olympics and the Military Police Blind Fund.

“This event did not cost tax payers one penny. The police tattoo was made possible by donations and contributions from organizations, charitable groups as well as individuals from the public,” Special Constable Yvon Montcalm said.

Participating in this year’s tattoo were police officers from;
The Canadian Forces Military Police
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police
The Ontario Provincial Police
The Metropolitan Toronto Police
The Waterloo Regional Police
The Ottawa Police
And, of course, The North Bay Police

Derrick Blair, age 27, said an event like the police tattoo leaves him with a different impression.

“You see these guys out on our streets doing their job and it becomes this day to day thing. But an event like this takes them out of the wood-work, so to speak.”

“I really enjoyed the night. I feel the event really showed people the nobility and spirit of policing in general… The event really makes you think and realize the sacrifices that have been made to keep people safe,” Blair said.

The theme, 'A Salute to Policing' is being held in conjunction with the 125th anniversary of the North Bay Police Service.

Montcalm said, “Years ago there were three districts Widdifield, North Bay and West Ferris. Each district had their own police. However, when the three districts amalgamated into the city of North Bay the North Bay Police began to provide safety and protection for all.”

The North Bay police have forged ahead to help shape the community and the growth of its citizens.

“I love being a police officer in North Bay,” Montcalm continued, “I think this is a great city to live in and we want to show the public, who have shown so much appreciation for us, what we’re made of. We will do that tonight.”