Congratulations to Staff Sergeant Gay Jones #57 of the Brandon Police Service. Today marks the end of one year of probation making her promotion to this rank official. With this promotion, Gay becomes the highest ranking female officer serving the City of Brandon and the second most senior (with 27 years) female in their ranks.

For those of you not familiar with the city, Brandon is the second largest city in Manitoba and the Brandon Police Service is a 76 member department. I recently enjoyed a coffee and chat with Gay and she reminded me that her commanding officer, Chief Keith Atkinson presided over the IAWP Opening Parade in Saskatoon, 2006.

Prayers and thoughts go out to families in Seattle
I tunned into the television yesterday morning to hear the horrific news of the four Lakeview Police officers who were killed while sitting in a coffee shop. As one officer from my own department stated today, "This is certainly a time of reflection on the sacrifices all Police Officers make daily and the ultimate sacrifice these four Police Officers made." (Staff Sergeant Bob Irwin, Winnipeg Police Service). I invite all Region 12 members to visit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund website to post a tribute or to make a donation in memory of the officers:

1. If you have not already received yours, click here to request your free 2010 National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund window decal to show you support America's peace officers — especially our fallen heroes. Upon receipt, display your decal on your car or home window where everyone can see.

2. Click here to leave a tribute to the fallen Lakewood officers or any officer you wish. You can also browse other tribute messages.

Please be safe.