After years of being in storage and circulating around the province, the uniforms of the late RCMP Sgt James Smythe, 1928-2019, have been donated to the Kitimat detachment.
In 1952, after just five years of service, then-constable Smythe was tasked by the RCMP to establish the first RCMP detachment in Kitimat, where he initially operated out of an abandoned first aid tent before moving to a building in the original town site.
‘Having [his daughters] Joanna and Charlene recognize the importance of the history of Kitimat and sharing these items with the local community is appreciated,” RCMP Detachment Commander, S/Sgt Graham Morgan said.
Smythe, who retired in 1972 after 25 years of service, had a significant journey with the RCMP, which included various postings and an overseas deployment. Kitimat RCMP say his contributions will be commemorated through a display of his belongings, arranged in collaboration with the Kitimat Museum and Archives.
The temporary exhibit will be available for viewing throughout November 2023, with considerations for a permanent display at the Kitimat RCMP Detachment being explored.
