INNISFAIL - The RCMP Police Dog Service Centre is now bigger and better.
And the world-class facility also proves it never forgets its own.
Along with showcasing upgrades of the kennel buildings and the addition of new state-of-the-art training facilities, the June 13 grand reopening at the centre, located six kilometres south of town, featured two ceremonies. The first was for the expanded agility field and public viewing area, which was followed by a canine demonstration.
The second ceremony, held at the Canadian Police Canine Association (CPCA) Monument in the centre's Memorial Garden, was to honour a long fallen and forgotten canine member from the Calgary Police Service Canine Unit. The canine's name was added to the Memorial Monument.
Pharaoh was killed in the line of duty in 1969, and it was only recently noticed the canine's service was not properly recognized. Pharaoh's service was finally commemorated on June 13 with a plaque unveiling to honour his memory.
The entire celebration was a fitting moving tribute for the canine heroes and was appreciated by the audience, which included the mayors of Innisfail, Red Deer County and Bowden.
"It was very enjoyable, and the new displays and activities they have established is going to be great. The public will love it when they go to watch them," said Innisfail mayor Jim Romane, adding the training centre has become an essential service and attraction for the town and surrounding area.
"The economic impact to the area is phenomenal. They have a number of trainees that are all the way from Nova Scotia to Vancouver. It's also incredible what the facility provides in the amount of tourism and economic development for the area," added Romane. "It's a good thing for the community, a great thing to have."
