Riders of the Plains - RCMP Training in the 1950s

摘要

In January 1958, in search of adventure, glory and free clothing, I joined the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and was sent to Regina, Sask., to commence training. Recruits were trained in 32-man troops, most of whom were 18 to 25 years of age. The Force had been in existence for 84 years and tradition was still of vital importance, especially in instilling pride in the recruit constable. Subjects taught included foot drill, with and without rifles, typing, physical training in the gymnasium, swimming and the history of the Force. We were also trained in the subject of law, as it pertained to the gathering of evidence, arrest and other skills required by those who enforce the law. The subject given precedence, in terms of time and effort, was equitation and our daily duties included morning and afternoon stables and 160 hours of riding, completed within the first five months of training.